The time of finding shewing when the Lord will be found and by whom, and when there will be no time of finding : also the persons are describ'd who shall not finde the Lord though they seek him with tears : likewise some reasons why the Lord hath suffered his work and good old cause to be stopt, and how it shall certainly be reviv'd again : also something is here shewed about the manner how it shall be reviv'd, and the time when / by John Canne.

The Time of Finding.

Psalm 32.6.

For this shall every gra∣cious Saint pray unto thee at the time of finding.

CHAP. I. At what Time the Lord will be found of his Praying-Saints.

First. IT is a Time of finding, When the Lords peo∣ple are prepa∣red for mercy, that is, thorow∣ly humbled, re∣formed, shaken off their dust, and have cleansed themselves of all filthi∣ness of the flesh and Spirit. Thea Is∣raelites were twenty yeers lamenting af∣ter

the Lord. In this long time no doubt, they prayed and fasted often, yet was not the Lord found: neither had they found him afterward, had not Samuel took them off from a cold, formal, halt∣ing, and half seeking of him, to a right humbling and reforming indeed. The vessel must be very pure and clean, be-before we will pow•• precious liquor into it: See Iam. 4.8, 9, 10. when had Manasseh a Time of finding?b the Text saith, when he humbled him∣self greatly before the God of his Fathers. What is the reason that many pray, cry, weep, &c. and yet no time of find∣ing? the Lord sees they are not hum∣bled enough, and so not fit enough for mercy.

And in truth it is a singular favor of God, not to give men the great things they ask, before they are prepared for them; for should they have them be∣fore they are truly humbled, and pure∣ly purged from all their dross and tin, they would make very il improvement ther∣of. As suppose a father should put a great estate into the hands of a little childe, what pitiful work would he

make in the mispending of it? I have thought many times, what mercy it was, that in the time of the Little Par∣liament, the Lord gave us not the things which we then desired; for had we received them, they had been in our hands, before we were meet for them; and so instead of honoring God, we should (as Iamesc saith) have consum'd them on our own lusts.

When I consider what Gods people are (at least many of them) and yet what they would have, I cannot better liken them, then to a man that hath a plaister or salve at his side; because he feels it smart, and puts him to sore pain, he intreats the Physician to take it off: but what saith the Physician? my friend, you must be patient, there is a great deal of corruption and rottenness be∣hinde, which must be fetch'd out, be∣fore the plaister can be remov'd. What is now our cry, and dayly complaint? Oh that the Lord would take the plaister off, remove the yoke from our necks, spoyl the spoyers, and them that have dealt treacherously, call forth his sanctified ones to execute the judgment written. But

what saith the Lord? My dear chil∣dren, be patient, quiet, contented; I am wiser then you, and know best what is to be done; there is some corrupt matter, some rottenness, which must be purged, before I can grant your desire: I must first bring away your covetous∣ness, spiritual-pride, censoriousness, passion, &c. then will I arise for Zion, and restore comfort to her mourners.

The sins of the Amorites were full at the end of the 430. years, then came ind the fourth generation; yet it was forty years after, before they came in∣to the Promised Land. For howsoever the time (as I said) was expired, as to the Iniquity of the Enemies, that is, they were ripe for judgment; yet the Lords people not being prepared for the pro∣mised blessing, fell short of it many yeers: The like may be said of things now, the time and times, and dividing of time, which (according toe Daniel) the Little Horn is to have, may be al∣ready expired, and his iniquity full, and so ripe for cutting down; nevertheless the Saints of the Most High, not being prepared to take away his Dominion, and

possess the Kingdom, there may be some yeers (after the three years and an half are expired) before he be destroy'd, and his body given to the burning flames: not but that the time may be ended, (viz. the three years & half) & the little Horn ripe for judgment; but the Saints are not PREPARED for such a dispensation.

We read that in all Iehoshaphats reign,f the high places were not ta∣ken away; and the reason is given, for as yet the people had not prepared their hearts unto the God of their fathers: as if he should say, As other abuses and corruptions were removed, so had these high places been also, but that the peo∣ple were not enough humble, holy, sin∣cere, to receive such a mercy: the like may be said of the high places remaining with us, as the carnal-ministry, Tythes, Tryers, the corrupt Law, &c. these (Gil∣lulim) filthy things, would soon be ta∣ken away, were Saints prepared to meet their God in his judgments. See Psal. 81.13, 14, 15, 16. It is with Christ and a soul seeking him, as between the load-stone and iron: if there be any dust or filth that sticks to the iron, the

stone refuseth to close with it, she will not be touch'd, nor touch where there is foulness; but take off the filth, and let the iron be clean, then they sweet∣ly close together: so is the Lords heart open, and his arms abroad, to take in∣to his bosome such as are pure and clean in heart, have no defilements upon them, are pure vessels,g meet for the Masters use, and prepared unto every good work; here the Lord will command the blessing, even the bles∣sed TIME OF FINDING.

Secondly, It is a Time of Finding, When the Faithful have nothing left them for help, but the Lord only: MANS EXTREMITY IS GODS OPPOR∣TƲNITY. The Tide (you know) turns, when the water is lowest; would yee know the time of the Lords turn∣ing and returning to his Church and people? It is at low water,h when he seeth that their power is gon, and there is none shut up or left:i when their soul is melted because of trouble, and are at their wits end. Then (crying unto the Lord) he bringeth them out of their distresses: he maketh the storm a calm,

and bringeth them to their desired haven.

Among men, to plead poverty and want, experience shews it signifies ve∣ry little: should a poor man goe to a merchant, and tell him nothing but of his nakedness and misery, this would not prevail with him for clothing and other relief; but with the Lord, no bet∣ter argument to speed, then to spread miseries and wants before him. Hence the Saints usually in their prayers have mentioned their DISTRESS, as a great reason to move the Lord unto pity: thus did Iehoshaphat, (k O our God, wilt thou not judge them? FOR we have no might, neither know we what to do. So Davidl Have mercy upon me, O God, FOR I am weak: O Lord heal me, FOR my bones are vexed. A∣gain,m Bow down thine ear O Lord, hear me, for I am poor and needy.

And for our encouragement herein, the Lord hath promised that it shall be A TIME OF FINDING, whenn in trouble we call upon him.o He will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble:p he will regard the prayer of the destitute, (or, naked shrub)

and will not despise their prayer. When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue faileth for thirst, I the Lord will hear them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them. The poor woman that had the issue of blood twelve yeers, and in that timer had spent all that she had on physicians, when she came to Christ in that extremity, was it not a time of finding? the Text saith, Straight∣way the fountain of her blood was dried up, and she felt in her body, that she was healed of that plague. And indeed her case is much like Ours; she came not to Christ, till all was spent. As long as we had a Parliament, a Councel of State, an Army, a General, &c. we too much rested on them, as our Saviors and De∣liverers: it is therefore well for us, that Iehovah hath broken these Egyp∣tian reeds, and that we have at present none in Heaven nor in Earth but Jesus Christ to trust in; for now we may con∣fidently expect A TIME OF FIND∣ING.

When Christ saw that those who had continued three days with him in the wilderness,f had nothing left, he

took compassion on them, and fed them by a miracle. Again, when he was at Nazareth preaching in the Synagogue, he needed not to have been led from thencet unto the brow or edg of the hill, he might have escaped long before; but he would suffer the enemy to go so far, to shew, that it is his time to work deliverance for his people, when they seem to be in the greatest danger. Is there nothing left? no Par∣liament, Councel, Army, Navy, Gene∣ral? Haveu all Zions friends dealt treacherously with her, and become her Enemies? Is the GOOD OLD CAƲSE brought to the brow of the hill? Then lift up your heads ye naked shrubs every where; now pray, pray, pray; you are come to the Finding time, and the mount where God will be seen.

Thirdly, It is a Time of Finding, When the enemies of Zion are at the high∣est, that is, Tryumph and insult as if all were theirs, and that they shall see sorrow no more:x the wicked boast∣eth of his hearts desire: that is, perceiv∣ing his designs and actions to prosper by hypocrisie, apostacy, falshood, &c.

he glories in it, and thinks now, that neither God nor man can reach him:y Thou puttest away (saith David) all the wicked of the earth like dross: the scum or dross when it is upmost and co∣vers the liquor, then it is taken off and thrown away; so when tyrants and persecutors have Saints under them, make account to wear them out by cru∣el usage, and cry victory, victory; then coms the revenging hand of God upon them, & treads them as dung under his feet. Thus was the Lord found of good Hezekiah: notea the message which Rabshakeh brought to him from his ma∣ster, and what was in the letter which Sennacherib sent him, Let not thy God in whom thou trustest deceive thee: hath any of the gods of the Nations delivered his land out of the hand of the King of Assyria? Oh the height of this filthy scum! but how did the Lord meet with him? not onely in giving a wonderful deliverance to his people, but by de∣stroying his Army, and the blasphemer also. Thus likewise it was withb Pharaoh,c Haman,d Herod, &c. and in our time with the King and Bi∣shops;

when they were highest in pride, pomp, and insolent practises against the Lord, his cause and people, he cut them off with a witness: and the like may we expect upon those, who domi∣neer, hold up their heads and look big,e Who is the Lord that I should obey his voyce?f Bow down, that we may go over.g Whoso falleth not down and worshippeth the golden Image, shall the same hour be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace. But whereunto may I liken such men, and others fol∣lowing their steps? to nothing fitter, then to a boil or botch, when it is swoln big, and risen high, then it breaks; and what follows? rottenness and stink. Are they swoln big, and risen high in power, titles, places? &c. it is a sign they will break the sooner: and as the waves of the sea after their lifting up, and roaring a while, leave behind them no∣thing but mire and dirt; so when the Lord shall cut them off, what then will remain? but the infamous memory of their former Apostacy, hypocrisie, and lies? It is truly my opinion, were Gods people as fit for mercy, as their ene∣mies

are for judgment; were they as low•• humiliation and Reformation, as the o¦ther are high in pride, blasphemy, a¦theism, we should soon see a vial pow••¦ed out upon them.

That placeh in the Prophet, me thinks notably agrees with our time They are all happy that deal very trea¦cherously. But how doth he describ•• them? Thou art neer in their mouth, bu•• far from their reins. As the water-ma•• in his boat, rows one way, and looks a∣nother; so these profess great things, and talk much of God and his ways, but in their practises and actions, are most vile and wicked: what follows? Pre∣pare them for the day of slaughter. When the beast is fat and ful flesht, then the butcher knocks him down. We know now well enough, why the Lord hath suffered the Apostates to enjoy such fa•• pasture, viz. the very pastures (or places) which fatted other beasts be∣fore them, it was (asi the Prophet saith) that they might be filled, and their heart exalted, and so made fat, and fit for slaughter.k It is time for thee O Lord to work, for they have made voyd

thy Law. He doth not say, It is time, &c. because they speak against thy ••aw, slight it, and regard it not; but, ••ave made it voyd: signifying, when ••en are grown to such a height of wic∣••edness, as the Laws of Christ are de∣••troyed by them, his cause and interest ••hrown down to raise themselves, righ∣eousness and truth made voyd, to set up oppression and falshood; then in∣deed it is high time for the Lord to work, yea, and then is the TIME in which he wil be FOƲND of his faithful ones, hungring and thirsting after righteous∣ness.

Fourthly, It is a Time of finding, When SEEKERS make Iesus Christ their ALL: all their hope, stay, and trust, and can truly say with the pro∣phet,l Whom have I in Heaven but thee? and there is none upon Earth that I desire besides thee. If we discern such as will not trust in us, but love to stand upon their own ground, we leave them to themselves, to shift as they can: as on the contrary, the more we see our selves trusted to, the more we take care for them. When the Lord sees a poor

soul gives up ALL to him, leaves hi•• case wholy with him, depends altogethe•• upon his power, goodness, faithfulness; as he delights to see his children in such a frame, so they may be sure, he will take care for them, and it shall go well with them.m In my distress (saith David) I called upon the Lord, and cry∣ed unto my God: he heard my voyce out of his temple, and my cry came before him even into his ear. But when did David cry, and found the Lord thus good to him?n after he had made him his rock and his fortress, his strength, his buckler, the horn of his salvation, and his high tower. A man that stands upon a rock, when he hears the sea roar, and the waves violently beating against the rock, all this puts him not into any fear, for he knows where he is; to wit, out of danger: so it is with every gra∣cious Saint, he is beyond the reach of men and Devils, no adversary power can hurt him. I do remember what I was once told by a good old man, a Nonconformist-Minister dwelling nigh me: a neighbor of his being in prison for witch-craft, he went to visit

him: this wretched man confest to him, that he had hated him a long time, and fought to do him mischief; and for this end, there was a compact between the Devil and him, to destroy him; the witch spoke often to the devil for to hasten their design: now the devil told him, he had several times attempted it, but could not effect any thing; and gave this for the reason, because he found him still either in prayer and communion with God, or had commit∣ed himself into the Lords hand. This I mention, because I had it from the mans own mouth: and what may we learn from it? how safe and happy they are, who make Christ their ALL: It is not Satan, nor any of his cursed imps and instruments that can harm them:o If God be with us, who can be a∣gainst us?

That people trusting in God, shall have A TIME OF FINDING, ap∣pears in the example of thep Reu∣benites,q Asa,r Iehoshaphat,s Ebed-melech; sot David asserts it often. But what was the reason that the Lord would not be found of Saul,

u neither by Dreams, nor by Ʋrim, nor by Prophets? He had rejected the Lord, and would not depend upon him, but would do what seemed right in his own eyes: hence being left of God, he runs to a witch, to the Devil, to any thing. How comes it to pass that some men make Soldiers their Saviors? their depen∣dence is on the arm of flesh; viz. Ahi∣tophels, Machiavels, Cardinals, Atheists: doubtless they see the Lord God hath forsaken them, for their abominable hypocrisie; and therefore being left of God, they are necessitated to make the best shift they can. In a sore famine, when wholsome meat cannot be had, people will eat dogs and cats, rats and mice, yea, and worse things too, rather then starve: many at this time are under a great famine; the Lord they cannot finde, and therefore to keep themselves from starving, they will make use of any unclean thing; steal, murder, swear falsly, and make lies of all sorts and sizes their refuge.

David saithx It is good for me to draw neer to God: and he gives the reason: I have put my trust in the Lord

God; that is, I may be assured by seek∣ing to find him, having made him my hope and confidence alone: but saith he,y Thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee. What is it to go a whoring from God? I answer, To cast off his work and cause, turn with the dog to the vomit, and trust in ly∣ing vanities. I have read of a Tyrant, by his cruelties had so displeased the people, as he would not trust himself with men, but committed the guard of his body to dogs: some men by their SPIRITƲAL WICKEDNES IN HIGH PLACES, do bring them∣selves into such a Case, God nor good men they dare not trust, having so highly displeased both; but rather con∣fide in dogs, swine, foxes, wolves, as the Scripture terms wicked men.

Fifthly, It is a Time of Finding, When the enemies of God are plotting mis∣chief against Iesus Christ, his interest, and people. Thus the Israelites found him, when Pharaoh sayd,a Come, let us deal wisely with them. So after∣wards when Haman took crafty coun∣sel against them, you know how the

proud tyrant was taken in the pit he had dig'd for others: so again, whenb Herod had design'd the taking a∣way of Peters life, the Lord so graci∣ously answered the prayers of the Church, as Peter is not only inlarged, but the bloody wretch a little after mi∣serably perisheth under Divine wrath. According to that saying,c The righteous is delivered out of trouble, and the wicked cometh in his stead. As some fishes are taken whilst they are making snares, and in the very traps and gins which they lay for others; so persecu∣tors very oft, as they are plotting mis∣chief, and at work, are trapt in their own wickedness.

Iulian the Apostate had a design at his return from the Persian wars, to have sacrificed the blood of Christians to his Idol gods. The like plot had the Con∣stable of France; after the taking of St. Quintin, he vowed to destroy Geneva: now howsoever their designs took no effect, yet the Lord's did against them, for he gave them their own blood to drink, and so sav'd his people. He that moves the week of candle with

his finger, mends the light, but burns and blacks his fingers: certain it is, the crafty plots of Gods enemies, have very much profited the Saints, though it have been to their own ruine.

And many of Christs little flock can speak it by experience, since the Last plotters came up, the Lord hath been very good to them, and they have found him more sweetly, and heart-feelingly then ever in their lives be∣fore. It was the speech of an honest man, being pitied that he had so bad a wife; Oh, said he, she is a good wife for me, she brings me often upon my knees, and to sighings and mourning before the Lord. In such a sence may many of the Lords people say, Whereas hypocrites reign, truly it is good for us; we should not be so often with our God, and pour out tears day and night, nor have such times of finding, did not thesed plowers plow upon our back, and make long their furrows.

In great mens kitchins there are cer∣tain scullions, to rub spits, and make clean the dishes; and howsoever they are black and foul themselves, yet they

are of necessary use, to have the ves∣sels meet for service: what a great deal of filth and dirt hath the Lord lately re∣mov'd from his little remnant, by his kitchin-drudges? of a truth, they were not half so fair, pure and lovely, some few years past, as they are now.e Why boastest thou thy self in mischief, O migh∣ty man? This may serve to take down the pride of Tyrants, and insulting hy∣pocrites; for what are they? (though Emperors, Kings, Princes, Protectors, &c.) if they persecute the witnesses of Iesus, for speaking against their wick∣ed ways, but as Christs SKƲLLIONS and DISH-CLOƲTS, to wipe off the dust and filth from the Saints, that they may be meet for the Masters use.

When it was told David that Ahi∣tophel was amongst the Conspirators with Absalom, he knew then there would be deep and devilish plotting against him; and therefore presently cries out,f O Lord I pray thee, turn the coun∣sel of Ahitophel into foolishness: and here David had a time of finding.g For Ahitophels design is not only fru∣strated, but the traytor himself, (as a

just reward for his villany) for very shame hangs himself: from hence this may be gathered, when we understand there are any wicked designs set on foot against the Kingdome of Christ, (whereof Davids Kingdom was a type) we must pray earnestly to God for the confusion thereof, it being then a TIME OF FINDING.

Sixtly, It is a time of Finding, When Saints are BOLD-BEGGARS, and will take no nay, or denyal at the Lords hand.h The effectual fervent pray∣er of a righteous man, availeth much. A mother sometimes refuseth to give her breast to the childe, though he ask it; but if he beg it with tears, cries, shrieches, she cannot but grant it: such was Iacobs seeking the blessing,i I will not let thee go, except thou bless me. But how did he hold the Angel?k He wept and made supplication unto him. As if he should say, I am resolv'd never to cease weeping and crying, here will I abide in mourning and bitterness of Soul, till I am blest.l Let me alone, saith God to Moses: In which words we have not onely a condescention of

divine Grace unto the cryes and tears of the Godly, as if the Lords hands were to be disposed by their prayers; but Moses importunity, as if he would not let go his hold, except his suit were granted. A man under a tree may reach some fruit, but if he clime up, and get to the top, there he shall have more fruit; and better fruit, riper, sweeter, larger. That prayer may A∣VAIL MƲCH, it must be more then common or ordinary, strong crying, and without ceasing.

It is said of Elias,m By his pray∣ing, he did shut and open Heaven: But how prayed he? earnestly, saith our Translation; the Text hath, He pray∣ed a Prayer, or, in praying he prayed: so that there is single-praying, and dou∣ble-praying, and they have theirs ac∣cordingly.n There is none that calleth upon thy name, that stirreth up himself to take hold on thee. These people are not blam'd so much for not praying, as for not putting forth them∣selves in prayer; they should (like Ia∣cob and Moses) have taken fast hold on God, and never have left off weep∣ing

and crying day and night, until their supplications had been granted: as an Arrow fals short of the mark, when the Bow is not well bent, the Arrow drawn up to the head, and de∣livered with strength: So our prayers oft-times fall short of answer, because we do noto press hard after God,p take him by violence, follow him from place to place, and not let him go, till heq cause his ear to hear.

This our Savior in one of his Para∣bles notably shews,r Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importuni∣ty, he will rise and give him as many as he needeth. The word rendred impor∣tunity, is properly impudence: and it hath this meaning, Though among men it would be thought too much boldness and impudence, for a man not to be said nay; yet the Lord is so far from disliking it when it is his own case, as he would have his children to force (as it were) a grant from him: the like we have in the importunate wi∣dow.s Shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto

him, though he bear long with them, I tell you he will avenge them speedily. Me∣thinks this bearing long, and avenging speedily, will not well accord, unless we take the sence thus: When the Lord shall raise up a poor destitute remnant, who (like the widow) will never cease weeping and crying to him, then he wil suddenly come forth to pour out the vials upon the Little Horn, the last Apostasie, Babylon, though formerly he kept silence a long time. I question whether that in the Prophet be yet ful∣fill'd:t I have set watchmen upon thy wals O Ierusalem, which shall never hold their peace day nor night; ye that make mention of the Lord keep not silence, and give him no rest, till he establish, and till he make Jerusalem a praise in the earth. As things when they come neer their Centre, move more swiftly and speedily then before; It seems to me, neer or about the breaking forth of the Great work in the last dayes, there will be a people so ingag'd for Zion, that they will make it their whole work to mourn and weep before the Lord, never ceasing till he break the

Heavens and come down.u Assoon as Zion traveled, she brought forth her Children. I think indeed, when the Lord shall put such Travels and Birth∣pangs upon the hearts of his people, as that they will give him no rest, but mourn like Doves perpetually before him, and make it their meat and drink day and night; we shall suddenly see the Lord bringing the Rod of his strength out of Zion, and to work ter∣rible things in the Earth. A Blessed TIME OF FINDING.x Amen: even so come Lord Iesus.

CHAP. II. When there is no Time of Finding, though the Lord be sought with tears.

FIrst, When men (like Esau) for light things and vanities, most prophanely give up great Priviledges. Of Esau it

is said,a for one morsel of meat he sold his birth-right: But what follows? Afterward when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected; for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears. There are three things in the History, which aggravate Esau's prophaneness, as to be sinful above measure.

1. The great thing which he light∣ly parted with, it was no less then his Birth-right: now the dignity of the first-born was very great, and many e∣minent priviledges it had. The first-bornb were peculiarly consecrated and given to God.c Next in honor to their prents.d Had a double portion of the Fathers goods.e Suc∣ceeded them in the Government of the Family or Kingdom.f And like∣wise in the Administration of the Priesthood, and service of God: Yea, more,g It figured Christ, andh all true Christians, heirs of the New Ierusalem. All this (as if it had been nothing) he carelesly parted with.

But, Secondly, Not for the worth of it. The Text saithi Iacob gave

Esau bread and pottage of Lentils, which was a kind of pulse much like to fetches or small pease, very course food: never∣theless so vile an exchange made he of his Heavenly dignity. Naboth uponk no terms would deliver up the in∣heritance of his father to Ahab: But this man for one morsel of meat, sels that which was far better.

3. When he had done all this,l He rose up and went his way, and despised his Birth-right: that is, he shewed no remorse, sorrow or repentance, for sel∣ling so precious a thing for so poor a price: he esteemed his Birth-right ve∣ry little before, but now he sets it al∣together at nought, as being glad he had met with such a BARGAIN, and sped so well.

Verily, I think that blood is not more like blood, then Esau and the Re∣volters of this age are like one ano∣ther. Neither since Esau's time till now, have any generation of men so MATCHT HIM in prophaness: and this I shall plainly demonstrate by the Parallel.

First, Let it be considered what they

have sold: such a Glorious Cause as ne∣ver was (I think) in the hands of men before. Not Civil-Rights and Liber∣ties alone, but the GREAT CAƲSE of God, the Interest of Christ and of his Kingdom, Laws, People.m Da∣vid thought it was honor enough, if a man might sit at the threshold of Gods house; that is, be in the lowest place•• and meanest service. In the late wars he that was but a common-soldier to fight against Tyranny and Idolatry; truly, his place and service was very honorable: then how much more a General, Colonel, Capt. &c. besides, the Lord was pleased to honor them with the Birth-right, they were the first-born: I say, the first to have brought the King home, and to set the Crown upon his Head. What could have been done more to men!

But, Secondly, What have they sold their Birth-right for? Oh, It grieves my soul to think of it, that ever such a thing should be told in Gath, and pub∣lished in the streets of Askelon, that it should be said among the Heathen, E∣MINENT PROFESSORS OF RE∣LIGION

AND MEN PRETEND∣ING GREAT THINGS FOR CHRIST AND ZION, HAVE SOLD THE GOOD OLD CAUSE FOR A MORSEL OF BREAD.n Consider diligently, and see if there be such a thing: Hath any Nation chan∣ged their gods, which are yet no gods? But my people have changed their glory for that which doth not profit. We think those foolish in their trades, that should lose many peeces of gold, to have a little bad coyn. Let them look over their Bargain, what have they sold, and what they have for it: A∣las, their Courts, Titles, Parks, Plea∣sures, &c. are all bad coyn, Lentils, meer vanity and lies,o things that will not profit in the day of wrath. But the Cause and work of God, which they unworthily have given up, had they been faithful to it, would have been better to them then gold; yea, then fine gold, & all the things that men desire, not to be compared to it. It is reported that those wicked Spirits (commonly called Fairies) having stolen the true child out of the cradle, do secretly convey

and place in the stead thereof, som•• changeling of their own: what truth i•• in it, I know not; but this I know t•• be true, the Devil hath dealt so wit•• Apostates, by a cunning sleight, h•• hath taken the true Child from them that is, THE GOOD OLD CAƲSE and hath left in the room of it a po••¦starv'd changeling, here the buyer m•••• wel say, It is naught, it is naught.

3. Are they sorry for what they have done? do they repent of it?p Nay they are not at all ashamed, neither can they blush: but rejoyce, feast and sing, having made such a Bargain. Iu∣das after he had betrayed Christ, took little pleasure in the money which he had for the Treason,q He brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the Chief Priests and Elders, saying, I have sinned, in that I have betrayed innocent blood. And he cast down the peeces of silver into the Temple, and departed, &c. But these men have not yet so much remorse on their conscience, for what they have done: but the Courts, Ca∣stles, Titles, Power, &c. the Money they had for the Innocent Cause, are the

things they glory in, and brag of. I might have mentioned the greediness of Esau's appetite to the dish; that red, that red there, Gen. 25.20. The doub∣ling of the word is to shew, his hast and gluttonous desire: the color and tast seem'd so pleasing and entising un∣to him. Whether they have not been ••ike a Lyon greedy of his prey. Psal. 17.12. Like greedy dogs which cannot have enough: Isa. 56.11. let their own practise be witness.

But there is one thing wherein Esau is more to be excus'd (if there may be any excuse made for him) then some now; he lay under some necessity:r I am (saith he) at the point of death, and what profit shall this Birth-right doe to me? But these men could not plead Esau's necessity, they were not ready to starve, but had enough; and there∣fore their sin was the more (prophane∣ness it may be call'd) to sell such a Bles∣sed Cause, not only for so LITTLE, but having no need so to do.

The Conclusion is, If Esau for his prophaneness were denyed a Time of Finding, others then following his

steps, and being as prophane (or more) may not expect to find it better in their own case.

Secondly, There will be no Time of Finding, for old Hypocrites, whoses bones are full of the sins of their youth, and do continually seek to hide and cover them under religious pretences as fasting, praying, weeping, &c. A old Hypocrite is like a child born croo∣ked; no earthly medicines can make him right and straight: or like to old cloth, which being rotten, will not bear the needle and thred, and there∣fore not to be mended. Some men through their long hypocrisie, are be∣come as rotten as dirt; no hope of mending: for they have so accustomed themselves to play the hypocrites, by weeping, praying, &c. ast the Black∣more may sooner change his skin, and the Leopard his spots, then they cease from dissembling, and mocking God in reli∣gious duties. They who from their infancy are accustomed to take poyson in small quantities, do inable their sto∣macks to digest more, till by long cu∣stome and increasing the quantity, it

becometh so familiar to their stomacks, that instead of poysoning of them, they are nourished by it. Thus it is with such men who from their youth have used themselves to hypocrisie and fals∣hood, and risen by degrees; at length (specially when they come to be old) their hearts are so hardned, and con∣••ciences seared, as their hypocrisie is no poyson, no trouble to them, but it turns to their nourishment, it feeds them like meat and drink, and they cannot live without it. It was a great sin in Iudas to deliver his Master up into the hands of his enemies, the Scribes and Pharisees: but the sin of Iudas had not been half so bad, if he had not so hypocritically betrayd Christ.u He came to Iesus, and said, Hail Master, and kissed him. So for any man to deliver up Christ in his truth and Cause, into the hands of his bloo∣dy enemies; viz. Priests, Lawyers, Papists, &c. under a pretence of Re∣ligion, and the honor of God; this comes neer the sinx for which there is no sacrifice: But of all Hypo∣crites, beware of the WEEPING HYPOCRITE, as the most dange∣rous.

Such a one was Ishmael,y who by his Religious weeping, deceived four∣score men, and murdred them all as they were going with their offerings to the house of the Lord. This Weeping Hypo∣crite is like the strumpet Phryne, for this cause named 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, as if you would say, Weep-laugh, because com∣monly she did both together, havin•• in the midst of laughter tears at com∣mand. As the silly fish swallows the hook, because of the bait that hides it, so many ignorant people are catch'd & snared by the Tears of Hypocrites: but howsoever by their weeping they may deceive men, yet God they cannot, neither cares he for their Tears.

We read often in the Prophets, the reason why the Lord would not be found of the Jewes, when distresses and troubles were upon them;a it was, they had dissembled with him, been old Hypocrites, sought to hide their fals∣hood, lying, Covenant-breaking, Op∣pression, &c.b By covering the Altar of the Lord with tears, with weeping, and crying out.

I cannot better resemble men accu∣stomed to Hypocrisie, then to that old

Traytor Tyrone, his manner was to send pictures to Queen Elizabeth, in which he would lie weeping at her foot; but still in rebellion against her: the Queen hereat was extreamly dis∣pleased, saying, We will have no more of his Pictures, but the head of the Tray∣tor. What may these men think of themselves, when they lie weeping at the feet of God? If they continue re∣bels against him, do they expect a Time of finding? How can that be? Doth he not see their Hypocrisie? surely yes, and will speedily take vengeance on them for it.

Thirdly, There will be no Time of Finding, For such persons who are so ob∣stinate in their sins, as no admonition or reproof can reclaim them. As clay un∣der the shining Sun, growes harder and stiffer: so the more they are told of their hypocrisie, pride, falshood, op∣pression, &c. the worse they are: Theeves whilst they have liberty, none are bolder, nor will they regard any thing that is spoken against their wick∣ed course of life; all good counsel is re∣jected and scorn'd: but when trouble comes, when they are brought to the

bar, then down upon their knees, Good my Lord, pardon, pardon; but then no pardon is to be had. And as it is thus with little Theeves, so it will be one day with the Great Theeves and Great Murderers,c Because I have cal∣led and ye refused, I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded: But ye have set at nought my Counsel, and would none of my reproof; I also will laugh at your calamity, I will mock when your fear cometh. Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not FIND ME.

Again,d They refused to heark∣en, and pulled away their shoulder, and stopped their ears, that they should not hear; yea, they made their hearts as an Adamant-stone, lest they should hear the Law, and the words which the Lord of Hosts hath sent in his Spirit by the for∣mer Prophets. Therefore came a great wrath from the Lord of Hosts: there∣fore it is come to pass, that as he cryed, and they would not hear; so they cryed, and I would not hear, saith the Lord of Hosts, but I scattered them with a whirl-wind among all the Nations whom they knew not.

It may not be thought that all those of whom the Prophet here speaks were Reprobates; for without doubt (as to life and glory) many of them were saved: nevertheless he will not hear them, as to spare them from the com∣mon judgment. In this respect (though Gods chosen ones) they shall have no more Time of finding, then others: par∣takers in sin, partakers in punishment. A father though he do not disinherit his childe, and quite cast him off, yet he may (and justly too) severely chastise him for some gross miscarriages,e And not let his soul spare for his crying, as the wise-man hath it. What means the Lord in saying,f Come out of her my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues? the words are plain enough; those that abide in Babylon, notwith∣standing again and again call'd upon to come out, may suffer Babylons plagues, that is, fall and perish with the wicked, as to their bodies and estates, howsoe∣ver saved in the day of Christ.

gIudgment must begin at the house of God: andh at his Sanctua∣ry. Thei wine-cup of fury is to be

given, first to Jerusalem and the Cities of Judah; afterwards all the Nations of the earth must have it.k The Lord of hosts will shake the Heavens and the Earth. First, Heaven, then Earth: therefore let Churches and Church-Of∣ficers now look about them:l The Lord hath a controversie with HIS peo∣ple, and he will plead with Israel: and what follows?m Hear YE the rod, and who hath appointed it. That the Lord will begin with Churches, and with a professing people, there are many reasons for it.

1. Because the Hypocrisie, Pride, Self-seeking, deceit, unfaithfulness, &c. of a Professing people, more disho∣nors God, and scandals the Gospel, then the evils and sins of any other people.n The Name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through YOU. As a servant in the family by his ill carriage, more disgraceth the house, then hundreds or thousands who are not of it. But to speak home, No people (I think) upon the face of the earth, have brought more dishonor to God, and reproach to the truth, then the back sliding-Churches, and professors of

our time. For, 1. Who had a hand in the late REBELLION, more then they,o To appoint a CAPTAIN to return to Bondage; whereby not onely to build again the things which they had destroyed, but to bring the sin and guilt of all the blood shed in the three Nations, upon the interest of Christ and his people, and so to justifie and acquit the Cavaleers. 2. Who manageth and maintains the oppressi∣ons and heavy burdens which lie up∣on the Souls and Bodies of good people every where? (No King or Bishop,) but a Professing people; yea, Saints, as they would be thought. 3. The gross Hypocrisie and Falshood of some PROFESSORS, hath of late so clear∣ly broken forth, as it hath caused many to become Atheists, at least to think in their heart there is no God. Neither may this be thought strange: for what can lead men sooner unto Atheism, then to see Professors often weep, fast, and pray before the Lord, and yet in their actions not make conscience of a∣ny thing? 4. There hath been such unheard-of impietie committed under

a shew of Religion, that it is now a com∣mon saying among Cavileers, when they hear of any base thing done, I warrant you (say they) it is some Professor hath done it. As informer time, when any Libel came from Rome, presently Par∣sons was thought to be the Author; and the more vile, the more Parson-like. I mourn, because I cannot mourn e∣nough; wherefore came I out of the womb to such a day? Ah! That the enemies of the Gospel should have so much cause given them, as to think, the worse the action is, the more likely to to be done by Professing people. 5. Such an Apostacy is seised on Churches (espe∣cially in the Officers) as none do more obstruct and hinder the Lords work of the day, then some of them. In the time of the Prelates, if a good man out of Conscience opposed the Priests, and held forth a publick testimony against their corrupt wayes; he was presently rayl'd at, counted factious, and cast out of their Synagogue. And is it not so now? I could give many instances, that the old Priests hardly shewed more bitterness against the Lords-witnesses, then some Church-Officers do at this

day against honest men, for being faith∣ful in the work of their Generation. But to proceed.

2. A Professing people causing scan∣dal by their evil walking, the Lord will soon take a course with: when we see children rebellious and disobedient, we are ready to say, It is a shame to their parents to suffer them so to do: what say profane men now! Looking upon the actions of Professors? Oh, say they, these call God Father, and they would have us think none are his children but they: if he be rheir Father, how is it that he suffers such horrible lying, fals∣hood, oath-breaking, and self-seeking in them?p I will sanctifie my Name which was prophaned among the Heathen, which YE have prophaned in the midst of them, and the Heathen shall know that I am the Lord, saith the Lord God. They were Professors of whom the Lord com∣plains,q Behold I am pressed under you, as a cart is pressed that is full of sheaves. The sins of Non-Professors are a burden; but Professors sins are more then a burden, and therefore not so long to be born: They were a back∣sliding people (as ours are) of whom

the Lord speaks,r That their Ob∣lations, Solemn meetings, and their ap∣pointed feasts, were a trouble to him, and he was weary to bear them. How can a man that is weary of a burden, have ease, if he cast it not off? they are the Professors of the last Times, which the Prophet mentioneth:s These are a smoak in my nose: Smoak continueth not long, it soon vanisheth; signifying, that the Back-sliders of this age are short liv'd.

3. That judgment doth begin at the house of God, it will be for the silencing of them that are without, when their day shall come.t Lo, I begin to bring evil on the City which is called by my Name, and should ye be utterly unpuni∣shed? ye shall not be unpunished.

4. It is a Professing people which have made the Last Apostacy: the sub∣ject (I conceive) of the first vial.

Fourthly, Such will have no Time of Finding, Who glory in their shame, and think it their Grace, that they are grace∣less: As David said of Doeg, dou boast themselves in mischief: for having done as wickedly as they can, they re∣joyce in and bless themselves in it.

xIs not this great Babylon, that I have built, for the house of the Kingdom, by the might of my power, and for the ho∣nor of my Majesty? Is not this the wealth, the power and greatness, which I have gotten by craft, deceit? &c. I have seen children when they have purposely made their hands and fingers black and foul, have held them up, and laugh'd to see what they had done: Is there not a Generation of men, who have made themselves foul and black within and without, no Leper more foul? never∣theless how do they glory in it, boast of it, and laugh to see so much blackness upon their fingers. Among the Indians he is taken for the gallantest fellow, that can make himself most ilfavored: and is it not so among some Christi∣ans (so call'd?) Is not He the None-such, who by Hypocrisie and double-dealing can deform himself most, and of all men is the ƲGLIEST to look on?y Wo worth the day.

Quest. But where is it proved, when men take delight in their sins, they shall have no Time of finding?

Answ. In Gods Holy Book often. 1. The Propheta Ezekiel plainly

tels us so: Hast thou seen this, O son of man? is it a light thing to the house of Iudah, that they commit the abominati∣ons which they commit here? for they have filled the Land with violence, and have RETƲRNED to provoke me to anger; and lo, they put the Branch to their nose. Therefore will I also deal in fury, mine eyes shall not spare, neither will I have pity, and though they cry in mine ears with a loud voyce, yet will I not hear them. It was the manner of the Heathen (and probably practised now by the Jewes) to carry Branches with them to their sacrifices, and to put them to the Idol, and there to sprinkle them, either with the blood of their Idolatrous sacrifice, or to sweet∣en them with some Idolatrous perfume; then to put them to their nostrils and kiss them, shewing thereby how great∣ly they approved what was don: so that the meaning is, when men not onely do base things, as break their oathes and Covenants, set up Tyranny & Ido∣latry, persecute the Interest of Christ & his people; but likewise take pleasure therein, and rejoyce in the wickedness they have done, such in the day of trou∣ble

shall have no TIME OF FIND∣ING.

Again, as we read inb the Pro∣phets, of men that had Whores-fore∣heads, refused to be ashamed, and could not blush, would discover their sins like Sodom, and hide them not, and set their blood (meaning cruelties and oppressi∣on) upon the top of a rock, to be seen of all the world: so we find in the same places, that the Lord would not spare them, but cut them off, and not regard their cries in the day of trouble. I have read it (somewhere) that in Cumena a wide mouth is in fashion; and what is more in fashion now, then a WIDE MOƲTH? He that hath the Impu∣dence and Boldness to defend hypocri∣sie and falshood, and to justifie oppres∣sion and Tyranny, hath the Fore-head to plead for wicked persons and things, he shall have Balaams wages and pro∣motion, and bec the Prophet of this people: and hence it is, that prophane∣ness, Atheism, and the great contempt of God and his wayes, so woefully a∣bounds every where; namely, of the impudence and Bold-face of sinners, as being no whit ashamed of their do∣ings,

but rather glorying, and priding themselves therein. As the Heathen Youngman hearing of the Adulteries and other wickedness of the gods, Doe they so, (saith he) and shall I their in∣ferior stick at it? And indeed how can it be otherwise, If the Leaders of the people (as Magistrates and Ministers) live without Conscience, and commit sin without shame; But others of low∣er Rank and condition will be encou∣raged to do as bad?d But woe to that man by whom the offence cometh.

Fifthly, No Time of Finding, For Tyrants Oppressors and men of blood, who live by thefts and murthers, as ravenous beasts by prey.e Judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy. A man looking into a glass, what his own countenance is there, the like he sees in the glass: if his own be friendly, chearful, pleasant, &c. so is the other; if stern and froward, he sees the like: To know how the Lord will look upon us in time of trouble, we need goe no further then to observe with what Face we look upon other men:f With the mercifull, he will shew himself merciful; with the froward, he will shew

himself froward.g With what judg∣ment ye judge, ye shall be judged, and with what measure you mete unto others, it shall be measured to you again: thus theh Devourer shall be devoured, and the spoyler spoyled. And so it was in the case of Pharaoh, Ahab, Saul, Ha∣man, Herod, &c. they took no pity on others, neither would the Lord pity them when their day came. Rahab hadi a Time of finding, so hadk E∣bed-melech the Ethiopian: but what were they? no Persecutors of Saints, no Banishers and Imprisoners of the Lords people, (never shewing a∣ny reason for it) but on the contrary, were helpful to them in their afflicti∣ons.

lHear I pray you, O heads of Iacob, and ye Princes of the House of Is∣rael: is it not for you to know judgment? who pluck their skin from off them, and their flesh from off their bones. Who also eat the flesh of my people, and flay their skin from off them, and they break their bones, and chop them in pieces, as for the pot, and as flesh within the cauldron? But some may say, what is all this? we see as much as this done every day, what

course will the Lord take with these Tyrants?m Then shall they cry un∣to the Lord, but he will not hear them; he will even hide his face from them, as they have behaved themselves ill in their do∣ings. As the fish greedy of the worm, swallows the hook with it, and feeling the prick in her bowels, draws back, and seeks to get off, but cannot: so Tyrants thirsting after the Blood and Treasure of the people, therewith swal∣low down the CƲRSE OF GOD; and perceiving afterward they are hookt and catcht, Oh, what strugling is there to be loose! one while byn vomiting all up again, otherwhile by fasting and prayer: if neither will do, then Moses is sent for in hast,o To intreat the Lord his God, that he may take away from them this death onely. But,p This iniquity shall not be pur∣ged from them till they dy. But the Lord hath something more against the Oppressing Rulers of Iudah, why he will hide his face from them in the day of trouble:q They build up of Zion with Bloods, and Ierusalem with iniquity; the Heads thereof judge for reward, and the Priests thereof teach for hire, and the

Prophets thereof divine for mony, yet will they lean upon the Lord, and say, Is not the Lord among us? none evil can come upon us. Here are several things worth the observing.

1. Between the Rulers and the Priests (it seems) there was a wicked combination; viz. whatsoever oppres∣sion and cruelty was done by the Ru∣lers, the Priests were to justifie it; and for this they were to have so much per ann. (as their hire) either in mony, or some other way. Thusq They drew iniquity with a cart-rope. As ma∣ny threds twisted together make a strong cord; so the Rulers, Priests and false Prophets agreeing together, could easily (as with a cart-rope) pluck from the people what they pleased, even, their skin and flesh from their bones.

2. That both States, viz. Civil and Ecclesiastical, were now built and kept up by the ruine of the people. As men using their beasts, think they are not bound to give them a reason of the ser∣vice they put them to: so these Ty∣rants did what they listed, neither was it for the people (according to the Do∣ctrine

of the Priests) to be otherwise then Beasts, in submitting to the will and lusts of the Heads in every thing.

3. Yet they leaned upon the Lord: that is, howsoever they had cast off the Power of Godliness; yet kept up still the the form: As a man that hath gotten scabs and ulcers upon his body, will not cast off his cloathes, but rather put on more and better, that his sores may not be seen.

4. Is not the Lord among us? This seems ro be the saying of the Priests and false Prophets, for their hire and mony: We are under the best Government that ever was, Our Heads will make us a hap∣py people; we need not fear forreign ene∣mies, neither plague, famine, pestilence; for our Rulers are good men, love the Temple, and give large maintenance to the Priests, so that no evil can come upon us.

Sixthly, Such will have no Time of finding, Who turn with the dog to the vo∣mit, by breaking vowes and ingagements, and building again what they had de∣stroyed.s The Back-slider in heart shall be filled with his own wayes: But what are his wayes? (Lying, Treache∣ry,

Self-seeking, Hypocrisie: as the Prodigal had nothing to fill his belly with, but the husks which the swine did eat; such will be the portion of Revolt∣ers from God: instead of peace of consci∣ence, joy in the Holy-Ghost, and sweet communion with God, They shall be filled with their own wayes: their Apo∣stacy, Hypocrisie and Falshood, shall be meat in their bowels; with this, as the gall of Asps within them, they shall be filled: thus it was witht Iudas.

The Lord by his Prophet tels Iudah,u Though Moses and Samuel stood before him, yet his mind could not be to∣wards them: this is much, that the Lord will not hear prayer; no, not the prayer of a Moses and Samuel stand∣ing together before him: but what is the reason?x Because of Manas∣seh the son of Hezekiah King of Iudah, for that which he did in Ierusalem: now that which aggravated Manassehs sin, and most provoked the Lord to such wrath, it is expressed thus:y For he built again the high places which He∣zekiah his father had destroyed; intima∣ting, had there not been such a great Reformation a little before, his wicked∣ness

had not been so foul and great: but after soz much time, and labor and treasure spent, in rooting up Ido∣latry and Tyranny, and to have the true worship of God, with other good things, setled in the Common-wealth: that he should be so graceless and im∣pudent, presently to make things as bad (or rather worse then they were be∣fore) here the Lord will not hearken to prayer, but his fury must break forth, and there is no remedy. In one respect (and it is a great one too) some men have done far worse then Manasseh; for Manasseh built not again the things which he himself had destroyed; nei∣ther in doing what he did, was he a Covenant-breaker with the people, that we read of: whereas they have built the high places which themselves de∣stroyed, and against vowes and Oathes also.

And here we may understand what the Holy-Ghost means, by saying,a It had been better for them not to have known the way of Righteousness, then af∣ter they have known it, to turn from the holy Commandment; that is, in the day of Gods wrath, when he is powring out

the Vials upon the Nations, it shall be better with them, who have not known the Truth, nor made profession of righ∣teous things, then with enlightned pro∣fessors, being led aside with the error of the wicked, and fallen from their own stedfastness. When prisoners are ta∣ken in war, if any RƲN-AWAYES are found among them, such seldome are spared, though the rest have quar∣ter.

bThey are turned back to the ini∣quities of their fathers, which refused to hear my words, and they went after other gods to serve them: the house of Israel and the house of Iudah have bro∣ken the Covenant which I made with their fathers; Therefore thus saith the Lord, Behold, I will bring evil upon them, which they shall not be able to escape; and though they shall cry unto me, I will not hearken unto them. Again,c Therefore pray not thou for this people, neither lift up a cry or a prayer for them, for I will not hear them in the time that they cry unto me for their trouble. So that now it is neither their own praying, nor the Prophets praying will avail.

Object. But what if with prayer,

they had joyned fasting, as the present Back-sliders doe?

Answ. For all this there had been no Time of finding,d When they fast I will not hear their cry, &c. But I will consume them by the sword, and by fa∣mine, and by pestilence.

Neither is it strange that the Lord should be so severe against Covenant-breakers and Back-sliders, for none more wound him in his honor & cause, then they. Formerly in wars they used Elephants, which did much service; but if they gave back, did more hurt then the enemy: so long as some men stood fast and faithful in the Lord's Battels, they did the Lord and his people sin∣gular service; but by GIVING BACK, they have more dishonored God, and trampled the Good old Cause under foot, then the Common-Enemy e∣ver did: it may be said of a truth, that the Common-Enemy never gave so deep a wound to the interest of Christ and his people, as some have done by GI∣VING BACK.

Object. But it will be said, the Pro∣phet speaks of a Covenant made with

God, which to break is dangerous; but with men not so.

Answ. Oathes and Engagements made with men, are Divine things; called in Scripture,e The Oaths of God. Therefore thus saith the Lord God, As I live, surely mine Oath that he hath despised, and my Covenant which he hath broken, even it will I recompense upon his own head. Though it was made with Nebuchad-nezzar, an Heathen King, an Idolater; yet the Lord owns it as made with himself, because his sa∣cred and dreadful Name was taken therein, and counts the violation and breach thereof, as if it had been for∣mally made with himself: so when Io∣shua had made a league with the Gibeo∣nites, and the Princes had sworn unto them; though they were deceitfully brought thereunto by the Gibeonites craft, yet they durst not violate the League made and sworn, and so put them to the sword, as they did others: but said,f We will let them live, lest wrath be upon us, because of the Oath. For such therefore as slight the Promi∣ses and Covenants which they have made with men, they shall one day know, as

they have taken the great name of God in vain, so he will not hold them guiltless, but will remember their great wickedness, and not spare them, nor pity them in the day of his anger.

Seventhly, When the Lord hath se∣parated the precious from the vile, there will be no finding time for the rest. No sooner are the Israelites on dry land,f but Pharaoh and his host are co∣vered with waters: ifg Noah be in the Ark, then presently comes the Flood: no sooner isi righteous Lot pluckt out of Sodome, but fire and brimstone burnes the place: whenk the mourn∣ers are marked, then immediately the Angel is bid to smite, and spare none: so whenl the Lords people are in their chambers, Behold, the Lord cometh out of his place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity. And this I take to be one reason of the Lords great patience at this time; though Sodome be ripe for judgment, yet the Angel will have Lot out before he ex∣ecute it:m Haste thee, escape thither, for I cannot do any thing, till thou be come thither. Why is not the vial poured out upon this Apostacy? surelyn the

Lord waits to be gracious unto his e∣lect among the Apostates.o He is not slack, concerning his promise (as some men count slackness) but is long suf∣fring TO ƲS-WARD, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance: whereas therefore he defers his wrath, it is to have his peo∣ple out of Babylon, and from the tents of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram: he would have them remember from whence they are fallen, and repent, and doe their first works; and were this done, he would soon take vengeance on the rest.

If a father be spoken unto concern∣ing a rebellious child, and counselled to cast him off; what saith he? Ah! I am his father, I cannot do it, I must yet try some other means, and exercise longer patience towards him. Indeed we have not (as the Lord hath) Fatherly bow∣els towards Christs sheep going astray: our passion is such, we would sometimes have them cast off, and lookt no more after: but what saith the Lord, I can∣not doe so, I am their Father, I must wait yet, that I may be gracious to them. If there be but a little corn among a

great deal of chaff, the husbandman will have that forth before he burns the chaff. For conclusion, Let us ear∣nestly seek the Lord, that he will pluck all Zions sons out of Babylon, and plant their feet in the pleasant paths of Christ: this being done, I say, the wheat be∣ing separated, the tares straightwayes will be cast into the lake of fire, where will be no Time of finding.

CHAP. III. Certain grounds and reasons, where∣fore there will be A TIME OF FINDING. 1. In respect of God himself. 2. In respect of his people. 3. In respect of the Cause, or, Things they seek him for.

THe Lord will be found in respec•• of himself: First, Because he i•• good, and his mercy endureth for e∣ver:

p Remember O Lord (saith David) thy tender mercies, and thy loving kindnesses, for they have been ever of old. You cannot touch a man so soft and easie upon the apple of his eye, but he will feel it: What are the tears, groanings, and sighings of Saints, but as the touch of a finger upon the apple of Gods eyes? there is nothing we can doe, whereof the Lord is more sensible and hath more feeling, then of Soul-travelling sobs and pangs. It is usual in the Prophets, when they are exhorting people, to seek the Lord by fasting and prayer, for their encourage∣ment to mention how pitiful and full of bowels the Lord is:q Turn ye unto me (saith the Lord) with all your hearts, & with fasting, and with weeping, & with mourning; & rent your hearts & not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God. Now observe the reason or mo∣tive to it: For he is gracious and mer∣ciful, slow to anger, and of great kind∣ness, and repenteth him of the evil: As if he should say,r You fall not into the hand of man, but into the hands of the Lord, whose mercies are exceed∣ing great, and wills pity you as

a father pitieth his children. So in a∣nother Prophet, Who is a God like un∣to thee? that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy: he will turn again, and have compassion upon us, &c. Note one passage here, He delighteth in mercy: If it be a thing a man well likes, and takes great plea∣sure in it, you need not press him very much to it, he will be free and for∣ward enough of himself to doe it for you. It is true, when the Lord is to afflict his people, here he seems to bet ƲNWILLING, it is not from his heart, (as the Hebrew reads) he de∣lights not in it; but it causeth him to fetch a groan or sigh:u Ah! woe is me!x How shall I give thee up? my heart is turned within me, &c. But to be found of his children, and to heap blessings upon them, here is his delight, in this his Soul is well plea∣sed.

yFor the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the Lord. If you mark the word (NOW) it makes the sence

thus: As if the Lord should say, I cannot see my oppressed ones in tears any longer before me; my bowels so yearn at their groanings, that I must forthwith arise against their proud and cruel enemies. If men who are evil, having pity and compassion in them, cannot but regard the sighs and cries of poor distressed creatures, and their hearts will be drawn out to relieve them:a And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him? I tell you, that he will avenge them speedily.

It was a proverb among those of Ge∣noa, when any was injured, to say un∣to him that had done the wrong; If you will not right me, my Lord Marshal will: with more certainty may Christs persecuted members say to Tyrants, and proud Hypocrites, Whereas we are imprisoned by you, and spoyled of our goods; our God will right us (though you do not) to your confu∣sion. If Benhadab had ground of hope that Ahab would shew him favor, be∣cause,b The Kings of the house of Is∣rael were merciful Kings: with what full assurance then may the present

mourners in Zion expect a Time of find∣ing? he being the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort, unto whom they make supplications and prayers.

Secondly, The Lord will be found, because of his word and promise sake. Among men there are some who will not break their promise for any thing: Ruth having told her mother in law what Boaz had promised to do for her, what saith Naomi to it?c Sit still my daughter, until thou know how the matter will fall: for the man will not be in rest, until he have finished the thing this day. Is there so much heed and con∣science in man (a poor worm) to be faithful to his ingagement? what may we think of God,d That cannot lie:e with whom is no variableness, nei∣ther shadow of turning; but alwayes speaketh in faithfulness and truth? Now we read in Holy Scripture, that the Lord promiseth there shall be a TIME OF FINDING. (f Call upon me in the time of trouble, and I will deliver thee. Observe how he speaks here like himself; like a God, as one that hath all power in his hands, and can doe whatsoever he pleaseth: I

WILL DELIVER THEE. If a poor man come to us for relief, such may his case be, as we cannot promise to help him, but tell him we will do our best, and help him if we can: But the Lord speaks not by iffs and may be, but pro∣miseth certain deliverance:g I will, be thou clean.

The like in Isaiahh I said not to the seed of Iacob, Seek ye me in vain; I the Lord speak righteousness, I declare things that are right. Suppose a beg∣gar should have an ingagement under the hand of a King, wherein he promi∣seth to do so and so for him; it were no presumption in this poor man, having access to the Prince, if he should menti∣on it, & shew it to him, & humbly desire the performance of it: neither would the other (though a King) be offend∣ed at it, but bid him rest content, for he would not be worse then his word. Though the disproportion is far great∣er between the Creator and the Crea∣ture, then between the greatest Mo∣narch of the world, and the poorest beggar on earth; yet have the Lords people many times remembred him of his promise, and spread it before his

face, and besought him earnestly to look thereon, and not forget it: Thus did Moses: (i) Remember Abraham, Isaac and Israel thy servants, to whom thou swarest by thine own self, &c. So David:k Remember thy word unto thy servant, upon which thou hast caused me to hope. And Solomon likewise,l Therefore now, O Lord God of Israel, keep with thy servant David my Father that thou promisest him. Again, Let thy word I pray thee be verified, which thou spakest unto thy servant David my Father. So Jeremie,m Remember, break not thy Covenant.

Neither was the Lord offended with them, that they did put him thus in re∣membrance; much less did he answer them as some men use to do, when they are minded of their Oaths, Vows, and Solemn Appeals to God, that they would do such and such things for Christ and his people, and the good of the Nations; Ho, say they, Those Promises and ingagements were but pro Tempore, that is, (as their practice shews) they never meant to keep their word, but as it should make for their own interest and advantage. But our

Godn abhorreth such deceitful men, and all such execrable Hypocrisie. Foro He changeth not:p All his promi∣ses are yea, and Amen: Yea, so far is the Lord from breaking Covenant, that he hears the cryes and prayers of his people for his promise sake.q And God heard their groaning, and God remem∣bred his Covenant with Abraham, with Isaak, and with Jacob. So a little af∣ter,r I have heard the groaning of the children of Israel, whom the Egypti∣ans keep in bondage, and I have remem∣bred my Covenant. When Doves sigh and mourn in clifts and secret holes, it doth presage (say they) that destruction is nigh the Birds of prey: not to speak of Pharaoh, Haman, Herod; a little before the fall of the Bishops and the King, the Lord's hidden ones were in bitterness of Soul, and poured out mournful complaints day and night a∣gainst their persecutors: but much more have they sighed and groaned before the Lord, since this sad Revolt broke forth, in regard of the scandal and re∣proach brought to the Gospel by it: And what doth this signifie? That the Lord will suddenly take away this i∣mage

of jealousie, and revive his work in the midst of the Nations. But to proceed.

That the Lord forgets not what he promised, might be shewed in many o∣ther places:s He hath remembred his Covenant for ever, the word which he commanded to a thousand Generations. And in the same Psalm,t He re∣membred his holy promise, and Abra∣ham his servant: Again,u Never∣theless, he regarded their afflictions, when he heard their cry; and he remembred for them his Covenant. See 2 Sam. 7.21. Here we may not omit how far the Lords wayes, and some mens ways are unlike; the Lord takes it well to be remembred of his Covenant and promises, and would have his children to mention them before him: whereas you cannot more grieve and vex cer∣tain NEW LORDS, then to tell them of their ingagements; should any but shew them the Oaths and Vows publi∣shed under their hands, what they pro∣tested in such a yeer, at such a place, for the interest of Christ and his people; their asseverations and imprecations, the curses and judgments they wish'd

to light upon themselves and posterity, if they did not such things; add here∣unto their frequent tears, hands laid on their breasts, and eyes lifted up to Heaven, calling God to witness, as to the plainness and singleness of their hearts: should this (I say) be told them, what would they say?x Treason, Treason,y Put this fellow into prison, &c. In all the reign of Caligula, if a man did but name a Goat, it was a crime (of Laesae Majestatis) against the Imperi∣al person; this was of his hairy body. A very strange thing, that a man could not say Goat, but he must mean the Emperor. Can you say, Covenant-breaker, self-seeker, deceiver of the peo∣ple, but the Lawyer cryes out,y Ma∣ster, thus saying, thou reproachest us also?

Thirdly, It must needs be, That there will be A TIME OF FINDING, because the Lord hereby will be honored and glorified many ways. There is no∣thing that a man will sooner regard and hearken to, then when his own profit and advantage is propounded. To speak soberly, and no more but what the Scriptures hold forth; It is good for the

Lord himself, That there be a time of finding.

Quest. What Good hath the Lord by it?

Answ. 1. By this means the Saints will bless him, and the high prayses of God will be in their mouth. Now a whoso offereth praise, glorifies him. Was not the Lord glorified, when he answer∣ed the groanings of his people in E∣gypt, plagued the Egyptians, and de∣stroyed Pharaoh, and his host in the Red Sea?b Then sang Moses and the children of Israel this song unto Jeho∣vah, &c. Who is like unto thee O Jeho∣vah among the gods? who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders! When Babylon shall lie under wrath,d sunk like a great milstone cast into the Sea, and shall be found no more at all; What immediate∣follows?d I heard a great voyce of much people in Heaven, saying, Halle∣lujah, Salvation, and glory, and honor, and power unto the Lord our God:e And again they said, HALLELƲ∣JAH: and a little after, anotherf great multitude, saying, HALLELU∣JAH,

for the Lord God Omnipotent Reigneth.

As when a judge hath done some notable and eminent act of justice up∣on a notorious offender, he is highly commended for it: so will the Lord have unspeakable praise from his peo∣ple every where, when he hath judged the Great Whore, destroyed the false Church, Ministery, Worship and Go∣vernment, pluckt her up root and branch with all her props and Lovers, HALLELƲ-JAH, and again, HAL∣LELƲ-IAH. What doth the Lord at present hear and see among the An∣tichristians? But Blasphemy, rayling, lying, murthers, sorceries, &c. no∣thing in truth, but what tends to the dishonor of his Great Name: but were the whole Kingdome of the Beast de∣stroyed, then would the Lord have glo∣ry and prayse, for being found of his people. What man would not have a filthy stink remov'd, that a sweet per∣sume might be in the place thereof? so long as Hypocrites reign, and Ty∣rants rule the Nations, their sins like dung will stink in the nostrils of the Lord; but when they are removed,

he will smell a sweet savor of praise and thanksgiving.

Besides, the Saints do often use it in prayer, as an argument for a time of finding, namely, the praises he shall have of them:g Have mercy upon me, O Lord, consider my trouble, &c. That I may shew forth all thy prayse in the gates of the daughters of Zion. Again,h Let the sighing of the prisoner come before thee, &c. Preserve those that are appointed to dy, and render to our neigh∣bors seven fold into their bosome, &c. So we thy people and sheep of thy pasture, will give thee thanks for ever, we will shew forth thy praise to all Generations. So then, do any desire to know, why the Lords little remnant at this day are so earnest in prayer against the enemies of Gods glory? Why they would have thei sinners in Zion afrayd, and fear∣fulness to surprise the Hypocrites? That such ask are turned aside to their crooked ways, may have their faces fil∣led with shame, and confounded in all their counsels and designs? It is for this end, that the Lord alone may have prayse. It is reported of Nero, when he had banished any good Common∣wealths

men, or put them to death, he would keep a day of thanksgiving; that is, thank his gods for his great delive∣rance. It is true, the faithful doe abhor such kind of thanksgiving, and leave Ne∣ro's exsample to be follow'd by corrupt men and such as he was. They dare not prayse God, because Hypocrites reign; but on the contrary, when they see the Lord doth punish them, for their wick∣edness, then they will praise him with their whole heart.

But, 2. Should Saints forget their duty of thanksgiving, yet would the Lord be a Gainer, that there is a time of finding, in respect of his great Name.l What wilt thou do (saith Joshua) unto thy great Name! So Mosesm Where∣fore should the Egyptians speak, and say, For mischief did he bring them out! That is, though thou hast matter e∣nough against this people, to consume them as one man, and to withdraw thy presence from them, yet remember thine own Concernments; to wit, how deeply thy Glory, Power and Faithfulness will suffer, if thou appear not again for them. When Hanun the son of Na∣hash had most unworthilyn abused

Davids Messengers, it was David principally that was wronged; neither could he in point of honor and justice put it up, without taking severe re∣venge upon the enemy for it. It is Je∣sus Christ, who at this day is the great∣est sufferer, in his Cause, Name and Kingdom; and therefore should he not in judgment come forth against the despiteful abusers of him, what would become of his Glory? would not an e∣vil and adulterous generation con∣clude,o The Lord sees them not, neither regards he good or evil?

When the Israelites were in great distress at the Red-Sea,p Moses cryed unto the Lord: It is true, they had then a time of finding, but why was it?q He saved them for his Name sake, that he might make his mighty power to be known. There is much comfort in the words, if well considered. Many ho∣nest hearts looking on their tears, sighs, and groans, are discouraged, to think what poor and weak things they are; what is all our weeping (say they) and mourning before the Lord? Shall we have a Time of finding for such low things? Do you stick here (pretious

ones?) But consider, there is more in the Lords eye (why he will be found of his people) then their cryes and tears; he will hear them, for his Name sake, that his Power, Justice, Mercy, Faithfulness, &c. may be known. So then, though you should question whether the Lord, in regard of your poor prayers and groanings, will arise against Evil doers; yet methinks it is not possible you should doubt, but he will doe itr FOR HIS NAME SAKE.

s Not unto us Iehovah, not unto us, but unto thy Name give the glory; for thy mercy, for thy truth. I cannot but think we are nigh THE TIME OF FINDING, because Christs little flock have Gods glory so much upon their hearts. As a servant in the field sow∣ing seed, he doth it not to have the crop, but for his masters profit: so the Saints up and down the Nation aret sowing in tears, and crying day and night to the Lord, that he will arise and have mercy upon Zion,u Breake in pieces and consume the fourth Monarchy, and render double vengeance upon Babylon. But for whom is this sowing? Not un∣to

us, O Lord, not unto us.x Let thine enemies be confounded and troubled for ever; yea, let them be put to shame and perish: That men may know, that thou whose Name alone is JEHOVAH, art the most high over all the Earth.

I know well enough what the faith∣ful are charged with, for witnessing a∣gainst the unrighteousness of men; viz. That that they would have others down, to have all power and greatness them∣selves, and that they allow of no Mini∣stry or Magistracy. For

Answ. 1. The Lord who seacheth the hearts knows all this to be false:y If it be rebellion, or if in transgression a∣gainst the Lord, save us not this day. 2. The Accusers themselves, know it to be false. For would some men for worldly Advantages, corrupt their con∣sciences, they have had not a little pro∣fered them, of Esau's Pottage and Ba∣laams Reward. But 3. This is true, we pray against the Antichristian Ministery and Magistracy, that the Lord would pluck them up, Root and Branch, and cast them, as unsavory Salt, to the Dunghil. And this we do (not being against all Magistracy and Mini∣stery,

but) to havea Judges restored ••s at the first,b and Pastors according ••o the Lords own heart, and so Christ ••hec ONELY POTENTATE. Lastly it is our Opinion, until the last Apostacie be destroyedd God's way will not be known upon earth, and his saving health among all Nations: for it is THIS THAT LETTETH the ruine of Babylon, and the Gathering of the Nations to Jesus Christ: viz. Jews and Gentiles.

We read in the History of the Wal∣denses, when these good people denyed Christ's humane Body to be in the Sa∣crament, the Priests would report they denyed God: So not allowing the Virgin Mary to be prayed to, that they had blasphemed her. Just so are we slandred at this day: Because we are a∣gainst an unlawful Ministery and Ma∣gistracy, Ergo, saith the Accuser of the Brethren, we deny all, and will have none.

Thirdly, the Lord being Found of his People, will have the more love from them many wayes.

First, A TIME OF FINDING is an heart-enlarger of dear affections to

Iesus Christ.e I love the Lord (saith David) because he hath heard my voice and my suplications: So inf another place. Did not David love the Lord before he had these deliverances? yes, doubtless, and very much: Notwith∣standing by this means he lov'd him a great deal more. As a man by stretch∣ing out a Bag or Purse, it holds more then it did before: So every Finding Time, is a reaching and stretching out the heart; our love riseth and growes by it exceedingly.

Secondly, more Love to his Truth, and holy Wayes: Thou puttest away all the wicked of the earth like dross, There∣fore I love thy Testimonies. Is not this harsh, that David should be encou∣raged to love the Laws of God, of the dreadful Judgements he had seen exe∣cuted upon Hypocrites, Apostates and Tyrants? If it be a thing very rich and pretious, yet so long as it is wrapt up and foulded together, few regard it, neither know we what it is: God's wrath powred out upon the Workers of Iniquity, is (as it were) the opening of himself, of his Kingdom and Laws; and until he doth so, he is not known, nor

his appointments. Butg When his ••udgements are in the earth, the inhabi∣tants of the world will learn righteousness.h He is known by the judgement which be executeth, andi glorified by it. So ••ong as HYPOCRITES REIGN, ••nd the LAST APOSTACIE stands, the Lords Testimonies will not be loved, butk the Statutes of Omri kept: not the Lords Messengers heark∣ned unto, but the deceitful workers of Antichrist. But when all Murtherers of souls and bodies shall be put away like dross; then will People every where love the Testimonies and Laws of JEHOVAH.

Thirdly, If we have a TIME OF FINDING, we will provoke others to love the Lord:l Thou heardest the voice of my supplications when I cried unto thee: And what followes? O love the Lord all ye his Saints; For the Lord preserveth the faithful, and plentifully rewardeth the PROƲD DOER. If we have a friend that doth very much for us, we would have others (besides our selves) to love him likewise. Of all men, those who do most experience the love of God towards themselves,

do especially provoke and stir up others to love him, and trust in him. So Da∣vid in another place,m I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears: O taste and see that the Lord is good: Blessed is the ma•• that trusteth in him. The Prophet here is like one that hath experienced •• thing, and found it very good; per∣swades others to make use also of it.

Fourthly, This TIME OF FIND∣ING will cause many (hearing of it) to love, fear and honour the Lord.n When Jethro heard what the Lord had done unto Pharaoh, and unto the Egyp∣tians, for Israels sake, he rejoyced, saying, Blessed be the Lord, who hath delivered you, &c. Now I know the Lord is great∣er then all gods: For in the things where∣in he dealt proudly, he was above the•• We read in Esther thato many of the people of the Land became Iews; but when was it? after the Time of Finding, when Haman and his sons were hanged; Then they cried,p The Lord he is God, the Lord he is God: but whilst Haman stood in power and greatness, who more ho∣noured then he? So when the good news of theq Great Earth-quake shal••

be spread thorow the Nations, and the perishing of the Last Apostacie, un∣der the first Vial, Oh, what rejoycing will this be to the Churches and Saints every where! how will they bless the Lord for it!r Iust and true are thy wayes, thou King of Saints!s for thy judgements are made manifest.

Now they will clearly understand that all the pretences and protestations which some made against the Pope, & for THE PROTESTANT CHRI∣STIAN RELIGION, were meer de∣lusions and falsehoods. Neither was Babylon in her idolatry and cruelty sup∣ported by any Power or State more then by them. And that they were the chief obstructers of the Lord's work against the GREAT WHORE. If irons be taken off from hand or foot, this sets the whole body free. The last Apostacie is as a great chain upon the Lords work; howsoever it be bro∣ken but in one Countrey, nevertheless the whole Body, all the members of Christ, will have Spiritual Liberty by it. And therefore doubtless when they shall hear of this Earth-quake, they will (like Iethro) bless the Lord for it.

Fourthly: Times of Finding give incouragement unto Saintst to trust in the Lord at all times, and to pour out their hearts before him: And this isu to give glory to God:x They that know thy Name, will put their trust in thee. But how is the Name of God known? tru∣ly not in any thing more fruitfully and teachingly, then by Times of Finding; here his glory passeth before us; we behold him with open face; here we have his power, goodness, faithfulness, &c. made known to us:y Because he hath enclined his ear to me, THERE∣FORE will I call upon him as long as I live. A man knowing where the Foun∣tain is, and being at it a thousand times, and alwayes satisfied, knows where to go when he wants water.a O thou that hearest prayer, unto thee shall all flesh come. Had we not a gracious answer of our cries and tears against the King and Prelates? He bowed the Heavens, and came down; then the earth shooke: He also thundred in the Heavens: And what more? He gave us the neck of our Enemies, we beat them small as the dust before the winde, and did cast them out as the dirt in the streets.

Quest. But what hath the Lord gotten, by granting such A TIME OF FINDING?

Answ. The honor of trusting in him:b Because thou hast been my help, (saith David,) Therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoyce. That the Lord heard us in the late wars, and was foundc JEHOVAH-JIREH, a God seen in the mount; We can pray now against all the Hypocritical e∣nemies of his Cause and Kingdom more earnestly;d In faith, nothing wa∣vering: which is greatly to his Glory. The bramble would havee all the trees put their trust in his shadow. Indeed Tyrants would be trusted, though there be neither trust nor Truth in them. I have read the story, how Dominique dreamt, the Church of Rome was fal∣ling, and that he upheld it with his shoulders. Have we never heard the like fable? In what sore distress the Church and State were, both ready to split, had not a Minion Idol been devis'd, (like Dominique's shoulders) to keep them up. The Tryers (probably) will ap∣ply this, because it is like that Shame∣ful thing for all the world. But to pro∣ceed:

Did not David very much honor the Lord by trusting in him, when he went forth against Goliah? But what caused David (by beleeving) to doe so? he tels you:f The Lord that delivered me out of the Paw of the Lyon, and out of the paw of the Bear, he will de∣liver me out of the hand of this Phili∣stine. I know there were many com∣plaints and heart-groans, poured out against the King and Bishops, for their Tyranny and Idolatry; but this I can truly say, For twenty years and more, (in which I suffered under them) the Lord did not draw out my heart to so much mourning and sighings, as I have done within these three or four years, against the GREAT BETRAYERS of the interest of Christ and his people. And this I finde (as a burning fire shut up in my bones) that I cannot hold my peace day nor night.

Besides, Howsoever I am a poor worm, and the least in my Father's house; yet herein I can give glory to God: I do beleeve the Lord that deli∣vered his afflicted people out of the paw of the Lyon, and out of the paw of the Bear, (King and Bishops;) he

will deliver them from all PROƲD PHILISTIMS, that defie the Israel of God; yea, and that speedily.

Fifthly, Times of finding ingage the Lords people, to do him more work, and better service afterwards. If Beasts, the larger allowance they have, will doe their master the more service: Surely then, the better Christ is to his chil∣dren, the more they will strive to doe his will in every thing.g Thou hast delivered my Soul from death, mine eyes from tears, and my feet from falling: I will walk on before the Lord in the land of the living: That is, Seeing I have had a Time of finding, I will so improve this great mercy, as the Lord shall have much glory and honor by it. Me∣thinks, it is at this day with some ho∣nest hearts, as it was with theh La∣borers, which stood idle in the market-place: Should they be askt, why they are not at work? What would they say? We are calling upon the Lord for imployment, we would willingly be at work, for it grieves our very Souls to stand thus idle. Now hath not a master more profit that his ser∣vants are at work, then standing still?

When the Great TIME OF FIND∣ING comes, then will Zions children be at work indeed: for now they may be said, to be idle, comparatively to their work THEN: Then some shall be thei Angel, To preach the E∣verlasting Gospel: Others thek Angels, to pour out the seven last plagues. Some,l to bind their Kings in chains, and their Nobles with fetters of iron. O∣thers,m to execute vengeance up∣on Babylon: Come Lord Jesus. When the Lord made use of Moses and Aa∣ron to pour out vials full of wrath, upon Pharaoh and Egypt; and of Elias, to de∣stroy the Prophets of Baal; and of Io∣shua, to cast out the Canaanites: Was he not in those things very much glo∣rified? If so, then much more when he shall answer the prayers of his peo∣ple, concerning his Son and Zion, and the destruction of Babylon, and all Ty∣rants. Which is better, and more for the honor of a King, that Theeves, Murderers and Rebels, do spoyl and destroy the good people; or to be ta∣ken and punished? What is it that Saints pray for, and desire a Time of finding? Truly this, That Hypocrites

and Apostates,n be consum'd out of the earth, and bloody Tyrants be no more. Thato all the Kingdoms of the world may be Christs,p whose right it is. And in order hereunto, they are to ready to follow the Lamb (in his work) wheresoever he shall lead them.

But howsoever some men by Times of finding are the better, yet many are the worse. Here Jesus Christ may say,r For my Love they are my Adversa∣ries. That is, for the Deliverances, Victories, Preferments, which I gave them, I am the more wrong'd by them, in my Great Name, Cause, and King∣dom. And truly I think, never a ge∣neration of men more sinn'd against kindness, then some of this generati∣on. Hear ye Heavens, and give ear, O Earth, for the Lord speaketh, I have nourished and brought up (or made great and exalted) children, but they have revolted from me. It is a pitiful fight, to see a poor Bird kill'd, with the feathers pluckt from her. They are not only contented to feather their nest, with the interest of Christ and his peo∣ple, but with those feathers, i. e. pow∣er,

places, Offices, and preferment, which they have pluckt from it, shoot at her, and murder her most unworthi∣ly. Doe ye thus requite the Lord, O foolish people and unwise? Is all forgot∣ten? What shall I render unto the Lord, for all his benefits towards me? Psal. 116.12.

CHAP. IIII. Reasons, Why there will be a Time of Finding, in respect of Gods peo∣ple.

First, BEcause of the scornings and revilings of the proud, as re∣proaching the Godly for their mourning and tears. Had not the Lord been found of Hezekiah, he had not been a∣ble in a little while to have born Rab∣shakehs and Sennacheribs blasphemies. That which caused Hannah to be in bitterness of Soul before the Lord, (and no doubt moved the Lord to take pity on her) it was the extreams provoking of her adversary, for to make her fret, because the Lord had shut up

her womb. Our Adversaries are fallen upon Rabshakehs work, and seek to pro∣voke us, by the like scornful reproach∣es. Where is the fruit (say they) of your tears and cries? You may see the Lord cares not for your weeping, fasting, and praying: did he regard them, he would have helpt you ere now: Ah, ah, Doe ye think that sobs and groans will doe it?

Of such Libertines and profane scof∣fers David speakst The Counsel of the poor afflicted, ye would make aba••hed, because Iehovah is his hope: that is, Ye have derided the Godly, when yee heard them in affliction to call upon the Lord, and would discourage them from making God their Hope by faith and prayer. Indeed this strikes deep, when the Enemy reproacheth our prayers: Iob found it so,u I am as one mocked of his neighbor, calling upon God. And David sadly complains of it,x My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say, Where is thy God? Again,y As with a sword in my bones, mine enemies reproach me, while they dayly say unto me, Where is thy God? A man that hath a weapon

thrust to the bone, cannot bear it long; he must have it forth, or dyes. Though it be a grievous thing to have our pray∣ers reproach'd, yet this help we have by it; namely, it will force us to be the more fervent and earnest with God, and not to rest day nor night, till there be A TIME OF FINDING.

We finde in Scripture, that the try∣umphing of the wicked, hath layn very much upon the Spirits of Saints; and therefore have desired a Time of find∣ing, that the Enemy might not insult:z Consider, and hear me, O Lord, lest mine enemy say, I have prevayled against him, and those that trouble me, rejoyce. Again,a Grant not, O Lord, the desire of the wicked, further not his wicked device, lest they exalt themselves. What is it that Apostates and other wicked men would have? That Mourners in Zion might have no Time of finding. And what would they do, should they have their desire? It is not to be uttered, the wickedness they would commit. The Jewes re∣port of one presuming to enter into the Holy of Holiest, and abusing the Treasure there, was by the hand of

God immediately smitten. The pray∣ers and groanings of Saints are no o∣ther, then Choyce things in the most Ho∣ly place. And therefore when men be∣gin to deride and reproach these Holy things, surely judgment is not far off.

I remember Hezekiahs words:b This is a day of trouble, and of rebuke, and of blasphemy: for the children are come to birth, and there is not strength to bring forth. What he speaketh there, is our present case: when the child is at the birth, the woman hath her sorest travel; then either death, or a speedy deliverance. That our Tears, Pray∣ers and Sighings are reproach'd, it hath brought the Work to the Birth. Ah! how Zion now travels, as having her last and sharpest pangs and throws upon her. Methinks I hear her cry,c Master, Master, we perish. But fear not Zion, hear what thy God speak∣eth,d Shall I bring to birth, and not cause to bring forth? As the Lord by the blasphemous reproaches and scornings of the Enemy, (viz. Priests, Lawyers, and Soldiers) hath brought the work to the Birth, and put the sharpest pangs now upon thee; so he

will speedily work out thy salvation?e The zeal of the Lord will perform this.

Secondly, Mourners shall have a Time of finding, Because the Lordf knows their frame, and remembreth they are dust. Things that are brittle and tender, should they be roughly hand∣led, would soon break to pieces. As the Lord knows, we are weaklings, Babes, Bruised reeds and smoaking flax; sog He is touched with a feeling of our infirmities, andh will not con∣tend for ever, lest our spirits should fayl before him. If a father should see his child at his foot gasping for life, would he not pity him, and preserve him (if he could) from perishing?i When my Soul fainted within me (said Jonah) I remembred the Lord, and my prayers came unto thee, into thine Holy Temple.

And this also makes me think a time of finding is nigh, Because the Name of God, and the Cause of Christ, lies with such weight upon the Spirits of Mourners, as they are even fainting under it. Poor Hagar could not in∣dure to hear the death-groans of her child: for though she had heard him a∣while

weep and cry for water, yet when she thought he was fainting a∣way,k She leaves him, and goes a good way off, and lifts up her voyce and wept. As DEATH-GROANS are now upon travelling Zion; so the Lord sees it, and he will not do as Hagar did, go off from her: (there is no need, for the water is not spent in his bottle,) but out of his fulness, he will speedily supply her, by granting her a blessed time of finding. If a man should hear lamentable groanings and screech∣es at his gate, and looking out at his window, should behold poor people ready to starve through cold and hun∣ger, he could not (having enough by him) suffer them to perish. It is thus with many of Gods people at this day; they lie ready to starve before the Throne of Grace, either FINDING or FAINTING. And will he suffer such to famish? Surely he will not, he cannot; for his promisel is to do otherwise.

Suppose a Beast carry a burden so long, as through weakness it begins to sink, what man would not pitie it, (though it be a Beast) and ease him of

it? The BURDEN hath been so long on the Lords Little ones, and them Horn so weared them out, as poor hearts, they seem almost tyr'd. One cries,n My foot slippeth: anothero Oppression makes him mad: othersp Our bones are dried up, and our hope is lost, &c. others,q The rod of the wicked hath been so long upon them, as they are ready to put forth their hands to iniquity. All this God knowes to be true; and he knowesr the flesh is weak, and Parents must not provoke ther Children, lest they be discouraged. But what may we gather from it? Our God will suddenly come, and not keep silence, to save all the meek of the earth.

Better one man should die, then the whole Nation perish. Methinkes things are come to that STRAIGHT, that if Christs Enemies live, his faithful Friends die; if their spirits fail not, the others will: If God do not sud∣denly arise for his great Name, some Sobbing-hearts wil break at his foot. But fear not thou Worm-Iacobs I will give men for thee (saith the Lord) and people for thy life. He will give the Little

Horn to the burning flame; The Last Apostacie shall perish: THE HY∣POCRITE SHALL REIGN NO MORE, rather then thy Spirit shall fail, for not having A Time of Find∣ing.

Thirdly: Because they are the Lords People, his Iewels, Servants, Children and Friends.t I am thy Servant (saith holy David) give ME understanding. If another mans Childe or Servant should ask something of you, you might in all reason (especially if Enemies) bid them go to their own Father and Ma∣ster, why do they come to you? It is very true, such as as are the servants of Antichrist, and do serve the base lusts of Tyrants, yea, and are Tyrants them∣selves; The Lord may justly say unto them, when they Call upon him, as the Prophet did to the King of Israel:u What have I to do with thee? Get thee to the Prophets of thy Father, and to the Prophets of thy Mother. So may the Lord say to REVOLTERS, Why come ye now to me? have ye not rejected me, and cast me off, in my Son, Zion, Cause and Kingdom; broken your Vowes and Covenants

with me? Therefore get ye unto the Head of the Last Apostacie, and the Great Whore, the Head of the First A∣postacie, whom ye have honored more then me: And it seems to me, David in the Spirit foretels this very thingx They cry'd out, but there was none to save; unto IEHOVAH, but he answered them not. A Prophesie to be fulfil'd in the Last Dayes (as I take it) upon APO∣STATE PROFESSORS.

But howsoever the Lord will thus deal with his enemies for their Crooked ways, yet with his Friends and faithful Servants, whoy continued with him in his temptations; Suffered banishment, imprisonment, spoyling of their goods, &c. rather then to forsake THE GOOD OLD CAƲSE, Thesea shall call, and the Lord shall answer; They shall cry, and he shall say, Here I amb Can a Mother forget her sucking child? &c. If a child be crying in the streets, and multitudes of people should passe by without taking notice of the child; yet no sooner doth the mother hear it cry, but runs to it, kisseth it, and carri∣eth him home in her bosome. What though prophane people, and proud

carnal professors that are at ease, re∣gard not the Mourners in Zion, but reproach their very sighings and groan∣ings, laugh and deride their prayers? yet they have a father that hears them, andc puts all their tears into his bot∣tle, and in due timed will put off their sackcloth, and gird them with gladness.

Fourthly, Because in seeking him, they seek only his Glory. As a shooter hath one eye close, and with the other sees nothing save the mark at which he shoots: thus it is now with the Little Remnant; their eyes are shut from all Self-respects, they look not upon any worldly advantage, neither ask any thing of God, but what may be to the glory of his Great Name. If they ask health, Liberty, food, &c. it is, that God may be glorified in the right im∣provement of them: if they pray a∣gainst Apostates and Covenant-break∣ers, it is, thate the Lord alone may be exalted.f To me to live is Christ, and to die is gain: that is, so Christ may be glorified, I am willing to live; and if glorified, I am willing to dy: it is all one to me whether I live or dy, so Jesus Christ by it may have glory.

Could a father see a child at his foot crying to him with tears, that he might know his will, and upon no other ac∣count then to honor him in the doing of it: I say, could a father see all this; and not be found?g For mens judgment, we pass it by, as a very small thing; the Lord knows it is true, viz. That there is a Seed of God at this day in bitterness of Soul, to know what is that good, that acceptable and perfect will of God; and for no other end, then to serve the Lord: and not as Turn-coats and Revolters do, to serve themselves upon him. The Lord was well pleased with Solomon,h Because he asked not for himself long life, nor riches, nor the life of his Enemies, but understanding to discern judgment; that is, he asked that thing, whereby he might most ho∣nor God: and the Lord gave him his request, and more too. Never had Saints more cause then now to beleeve a time of finding is nigh, and that all their tears and sighings will be speedily answered, seeing they go not unto the Lord (as Hypocrites do,)i. For corn and wine, and rebel against him; but for this end, thatk the Lords name may be hallowed.

But this corrupt men cannot do. It is not Gods Counsel they desire to know, nor his good Cause to carry on; but that their own wicked devises might prosper, & that the Lord would give his glory to them. As the rain∣bow never appears, but is in opposition to the Sun; so some men if they appear publickly or privately, in fasting and prayer, they are never in that side of the world where Gods Glory is, but quite in opposition to it. I have read of a certain Soldier, having done great service for the State, was bid to ask some reward for himself: to which he answered, For himself he would ask no∣thing, but had a Petition for the Church and People of God. I hope there is such a frame of Spirit among the Mourners every where, they have layd aside their own concernments, and are seeking the things of Christ and Zion; if so, then hold up your heads, The time of finding is come.

Fifthly, Because the prayers of Saints are not onlyl by Jesus Christ presen∣ted to the Father, and by him made a sweet sacrifice, but likewise he himself moves and intercedes in their behalf.

Thus Christ in Heaven is as a Favorite at Court, takes our Petitions and speaks to them: So saith Paul,m He is at the right hand of God, making intercessi∣on for us: The Text carries it, that he is in Heaven with his stripes, wounds, blood, death, setting them before the eyes of his Father, and all for Zion. Some men after their exaltation and preferment, forget their poor Bre∣thren and old friends, (as Phara∣ohs Butler forgot Joseph:) but Christ doth not so, we aren as a seal set upon his heart, there he wears us, and keeps us, not only for an ornament, and to shew how pretious he accounts us, but that we might be always in his sight and remembrance.

The incouragement given us to come boldly to the Throne of Grace, is,o For we have not an High-Priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities, but was in all points tempted, yet without sin. There is no man will prosecute a business for another so ful∣ly, as he that is tenderly affected with the case. The troubles and distresses which are now upon Gods people for poor Zion, are upon the heart of Christ,

yea, and much more upon his heart then theirs; and therefore doubt∣less, he will press home their SUITS in Heaven. Besides, that which Ado∣nijah said to Bathsheba, is most true of Christ:p The Father will not say him nay.q Ask of me, and I shall give thee the Heathen for thine inheri∣tance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession. A man will be the more willing to help another, if he see himself concern'd in the thing, and that it is his own good that is desired. For whom doe the faithfull sigh and groan? Is it not for Christ? as the Prophet saith,r Prayer shall be made for him continually. When they pray against Babylon, Tyrants, Tryers, Lawyers, Soldiers; Is not this to pray for Christ? viz. That his enemies may be made his footstoole,s (as he ex∣pecteth) andt all the Kingdoms of the world become his,u whose right it is. And what may we learn hence? Surely Christ will look after the tears and cryes of Mourners, be∣cause they are poured forth for his own righteous cause.

Lastly, That Believers should come

unto God by Christ, the holy Ghost giveth this reasonx Seeing he ever li∣veth to make intercession for them.y Your Fathers where are they? and the Prophets do they live for ever? How of∣ten comes it to pass that there is not a Moses to stand in the breach?a not a man to he found. Is it not now our sad complaint?b We see not our Signs, there is no more any Prophet, neither is there among us any that knoweth how long. Nevertheless Jesus Christ our great High-Priest LIVETH FOR E∣VER, and ceaseth not to plead Zions Cause, (or his own Cause rather) be∣fore the Throne.c Doubtless thou art our Father, though Abraham be ig∣norant of us, and Israel acknowledge us not. Thou O Lord art our Father, our Redeemer, thy Name is from ever∣lasting.

And here it falls in our way to dis∣cover the great presumption of Christs Enemies,d which will not that he should reign over them; But instead of exalting him, seek to exalt themselves. It is much they are not affraid to take Christs Name in their mouth. For un∣to whom may they be likened? To a

company of Usurpers, who keeping an honest man out of his lawful possession, will yet go to him and entreat him to assist him against himself. Surely he cannot but think they mock him most grosly. I leave the application to such as will not thate Christ should take to him his great power and reign; yet say, Lord, Lord.

Sixthly. Because they seek the face of God, with the groanings of the Spirit; And this is tof pray in the Holy Ghost: i. e. when the Spirit works all our sigh∣ings, wrestlings and strong cries. As the Master holding the Childs hand, what is so written, is done by him, and he cannot but like it, because it is his own Act: Thus in our sincere Mourn∣ings before the Lord: they must needs be accepted, because they areg the work of his own Hand; not our sigh∣ings and prayers, but as David said,h Of thine own have we given thee. When the Heavens and the Earth were finish∣ed, and all the hosts of them, it is said,i And God saw every thing that he had made, and behold it was very good. It could not but be lovely, fair and excel∣lent, being his own work-manship.

Are our Mournings the work of the Spirit? Surely then, as God sees them, they are very good.

And this is matter of singular com∣fort and incouragement unto all Mourners in Zion: What though their sighs and cryes (as lookt on by Enemies) are slighted and scorn'd?k What do those feeble Jews (Fifth Mo∣narchy-men) will they fortify themselves? do they think by their weeping to build Zi∣on? Will they revive the stones of the heaps of the rubbish which are burnt? Ah, ah, say they (poor deceived people; that which they build by their praying and fasting, if a fox go up, he shall even break down their stone wall. It is true, thus are our tears and cryes to God mockt and de∣spis'd; but let us not be discouraged for all this, remember (what was said) they are not our groanings, but the Spirit's and in that regard,l by terrible things in righteousness, wilt thou answer us, O God of our salvation.m The Spirit helpeth our infirmities, for we know not what we should pray for, as we ought; but the Spirit it self maketh in∣tercession for us, with groans which can∣not be uttered. And he that searcheth

the heart, knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh interces∣sion for the Saints, according to the will of God: That is, we being weak, and prayer a great work, the Spirit helps us to carry the Burden with us, and for us; and supplyes our want of know∣ledge, by prompting (as it were) our lesson unto us, to ask such things, and in that manner as God requireth and alloweth. Parents many times hear their children sob and groan; but not knowing the cause thereof, cannot help them. But the Lord knows the mind of the Spirit. Though we doe butn Chatter like a Crane or swallow, and mourn as a Dove;o Speak onely in our hearts (like Hannah) and no voyce is heard: This before the Lordp is as incense, an acceptable and well-pleas∣ing sacrifice.

Quest. But how may we know the Groanings of the Spirit, from our own?

Answ. 1. Nothing will quiet the Spirit (as to cease groaning) but satis∣faction in the thing groaned for. Though Elkanah spake comfortably to his wife, when he said,q Am not I

better to thee then ten sons? yet that would not help: she was in bitterness of Soul before the Lord for a childe, and nothing but a childe will comfort her. As Rachel said,r Give me children or else I dy; Thus it is with Saints groaning in the Spirit for Zion, and the Great Name of God, and a∣gainst the abominable Falshood and Hypocrisie of men. Their Soulss refuse to be comforted, until the Lord gratiously answer them here. I have seen children cry and roar after a piece of mony, but no sooner hath a counter or bable been put into their hand, but they had done crying, and all is quiet and well again. What great mourning was there some few yeers since in Churches and among professors, after righteousness and judgment, and to have all heavy yokes broken? but now the Abby-key being found, and the fish caught; that is, great places, Offices, and preferment gotten, we hear no more crying out against oppression, all is quiet now, and well again; now they can hold their peace, though the time be worse then before, in respect of the interest of Christ and his Peo∣ple,

and the publick good of the Na∣tions.

But what may we gather hence? They were not the Lords Remembran∣cers. Their tears and groans were their own, and for their own interest, not the Spirit's, and for the things of Christ: for had the Spirit set them on work, had they been the Spirit's sighs and sobs for Zion,t they would not have held their peace day nor night, nor given the Lord rest, ƲNTIL he had made Jerusalem a Prayse in the Earth.u If they had been of us, they would no doubt, have continued with us.

2. If they are the Groanings of the Spirit, nothing will be askt, but what is,x according to the will of God.y Not my will (saith Christ) but thine be done. So again,a The will of the Lord be done. As a man that is doing somthing for a friend, will in∣deavor to doe it so, as the party for whom he doth it, may like it, and have content: thus it is with us, when the Spirit helpeth us with groanings which cannot be uttered: We are all for pleasing God; we would not speak, nor have our hearts move or think of any thing,

but what the Lord should take pleasure and delight in. It is true, Hypocrites can groan, and like Esau, will beg bles∣sings with tears; but observe this, it is to serve themselves upon the L••••d, and to have their will done, whethe•• it be Gods will or no: thus they will have the Lord to bless their Counsels and designs, though they are against Himself, his Son, and Zion: so when they haveb made a Covenant with death, and with hell are at an agreement, then must Priests and People be call'd together, to fast and pray, that it may prosper.

3. Spirit-Groanings are likec E∣lias chariot and horses of fire, carry the Soul into Heaven. It is the Glory of God, which now is onely eyed. As the Mariners needle always trembles and shakes, till her point be towards the Pole: so it is with right Mourners, they are not satisfied in weeping and sobbing before the Lord, unless they have the sight of his glory; then they are quiet, seeing the mark they look after. When the sun is risen, we see not a star in the Firmament: Reader, note it. What is it when thou art in bitter∣ness

of Soul, that vanisheth? Is it SELF? Seest thou no Honour, Credit, Preferment, Relations, nor a∣ny other worldly Respects? Seest thou the great Name of God, dearer to thee then thy soul? And for afflictedd Zi∣on, thou weepest, thine eye, thine eye run∣neth down with Tears. Bl••••sed art thou that thus mournest;e the Lord shall restore comfort to thee.

4. A man never sees more emptiness, unworthiness and poverty in himself, then when he is under the strongest groanings of the Spirit; neither is his heart at any time more broken then at the woful sight thereof.f Wo is me, I am undon &c. For mine eyes have seen the King the Lord of Hosts: The Spirit in our mournings isg as a light that shineth in a dark place. We did not think to have found such naked∣ness and baseness as we do: Again, the Spirit-Groanings are like fire in the Soul: such may the fire be, as it melts down Iron, breaks Rocks and Stones a∣sunder. It is a good sign a man is un∣der the Mournings of the Spirit, when findes his corruptions and lusts (hard as

flint) to melt and break in pieces, and by the power of the Spirit, consum'd and brought to nothing.

The groaning of Hypocrites, is like the drawing of a Curtain, whereby things are hid and covered: The more they weep, fast, and pray, the less fight have they of their sins: For what is the reason some men see not so much evil in their wayes, now as they did some yeers past? I answer, in their fasting, and praying ever since, they have been drawing curtains over their filthy sores: Not but that they are far worse then they were; but they see it not, because of their hypocritical Tears.

5. The Spirits Groanings leave two things (especially) upon the Soul. 1. Refreshment: as when a man hath eaten well, he findes his spirits strengthned and comforted: But this is not so with unsound hearts. It is reported of Witches, when they have eaten and drunk of the best, and to their thinking largely, they find themselves presently in a condition ready to starve. Should some men speak their experiences, they could not but confess, when they have been some hours in prayer, and sighed

often, they have been afterward no o∣ther then like Pharaoh's lean and ill-fa∣voured kine, not had any soul-strength∣ning or feeling refreshing at all.

2. The Soul is left in a sweet and blessed frame; as Wax that is soft, is fit to take any impression: so is a Saint wrought up wholy for God; his will, affections, desires, run out with Paul,h Lord what wilt thou have me to do? That is, I am ready to receive any truth, and to deny my self in every thing, so that I may follow thee, and serve my Generation.

It is a common saying (and I have heard it often) when some men talk of fasting and prayer Now (say they) be∣ware, there is some Plot or other in hand. And usually it is so: For after the For∣mality of the work is over, their doings are worse then ever; so far fromi loosing the bonds of wickedness, and letting the oppressed go free, and breaking every yoke, &c. as on the contrary they smite with the fist of wickedness their fellow-servants, and cast out their Brethren more cruelly then before. But what saith Solomon?k To do Justice and Judgment, is more acceptable to the Lord

then sacrifice,l I will have mercy and not sacrifice.

Seventhly, Because the Lord is teaching Zions Mourners the ART OF SEEKING. You know by long practise and use, a man becoms expert and skilful in a trade, especially having a good master. This benefit (through Grace) some of the Lords people have received, since the Apostacy, came up; namely, they have been learning the Art of Prayer: for not onely of late yeers, have they been more frequent in the practice, but have gotten more ex∣perience of the thing then ever they had before.

According to the Scriptures, men must praym in faith:n with fer∣vency and earnestness:o watching thereunto with all perseverance:p and not faint. If thousands had thrown stones at Goliah, and bigger then Da∣vid's was, and hit him too; yet I que∣stion, whether he had fallen: but that STONE which went out of Davids sling, sunkq into his forehead, and he fell down dead upon the earth. The Lord hath some (I hope many) in the Na∣tion, who are going (as so many DA∣VIDS)

against the Philistine (Babylon and all her Brats and Props.) And howsoever he is cursing them by his gods, and laughs to see nothing in their hands, but a sling and stone; onely sighs and groanings: yet let this HEA∣VEN-DARING GIANT know, that the Little Stone which he derides, (faith and prayer) shall within a little while, sink into his forehead, and the MONSTER shall fall, and his flesh be given to the fowls of the ayr, and to the beasts of the field;r That all the Earth may know that there is a God in Israel.

I well remember in the time of the Bishops, when there rose up any cruel Persecutor, the good old Puritants would say one to another, Come let us pray this enemy of our Lord Iesus Christ and his people to death. And I could give some memorable instances, what a wonderful Return of prayer they had, i. e. how the revenging hand of God smote the Enemies, sometimes dead immediately upon the sighings and groanings of his people against them: a warning to all new Persecutors to look about them: Sions children are

crying day and night unto God against them; and they have learnt now, the Art of praying, never to be silent, till they have prayed them to death, that is, prevail'd with the Lord to execute upon them the judgment written.

CHAP. V. That there will be a Time of Find∣ing, because of the good Things prayed for.

WHatsoever the Lord in his word promiseth to give, that we may ask, and shall surely have it: so saith the Apostle,s If we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us. No child could better love a mother, then Solomon loved Bathsheba; and there was no reasonable thing, but she might have had it of him. Nevertheless when she came to speak unto himt for Adonijah, (who had usurpt the Kingdom) he not only denyed her, but gave her a close reproof. Though they are the Lords own people, yet when they will take that boldness, as to pray

for Traytors and Covenant-breakers, and that Hypocrites may reign, and that the Lord will bless their Councels, Armies, Navies; I tell you, the Lord doth not take it well at their hands, neither shall they have a time of finding: But will be angry against the prayer of his people.t I will pray (saith Paul) with the Spi∣rit, and I will pray with understanding also. So in another place:u If there are any that understand and seek God: Intimating these must be joyn'd together, viz. an understand∣ing-seeking of God. A man out of his way, the faster he goes, the farther off he is from the place where he should be. So for men to ask things altoge∣ther contrary to the express word of God; to wit, for Babylon, the Lit∣tle Horn, and bottomless Beast, and that Satan may not be bound up, but reign and prevayl still in his wick∣ed and murtherous instruments: sure∣ly this must needs be out of Gods way, and not the way to find him, but rather a great provocation.

Quest. But do any pray for Baby∣lon, and that Satan may prevayl still in his destroying instruments?

I answer: Most do so, but under another name: the Zion they pray for, is indeed Babylon; the Ministry and Magistracy which they cry up, and call Lawful, is Antichristian and sin∣ful: thusx They call the proud hap∣py, and they that work wickedness are set up. But how set up? The Priests plead for them, and pray for them, and so make their Building strong, (as the Hebr. reads) byy blessing an Idol. If dung or trash should be presented to a Prince, yet so, as under the name of rich Pearls and jewels, would he accept of it (knowing what it is) because it is brought to him not as dung, but pearls of great Price?a I am a great King, saith the Lord of Hosts, and cur∣sed be the deceiver.b Wo to them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, &c. But indeed these deceitful workers cannot deceive God; men they do, and their own souls likewise, as they will see ere long, to their bitterness and shame.

Quest. But what are the good things which the Lords people are asking ac∣cording to the will of God, and wait for a time of finding?

Answ. 1. That the Lord will re∣member his Great Name, and suffer it not any longer to lie under reproach and blasphemie; but arise, and shew forth his Power, Faithfulness, Mercy and Judgment, in reviving his work in the midst of us, Mat. 6.9. 1 Cor. 10.31. Exod. 32.12. Num. 14.13, 14. Josh. 7.9. Psalm 83.17, 18. Hab. 3.2.

2. That Jesus Christ (Heir of all things) may have his right and pos∣session: That is, that all corrupt powers on earth may be broken to pieces, His Enemies made his Foot-stool, and he a∣lone exalted, and the onely Potentate, Psal. 2.8. & 72.8, 15. Dan. 2.34, 35. & 7.14. Luk. 19.12. Obad. 21. Rev. 11.15, 17. Isa. 2.11, 12. &c. Heb. 10.13. 1 Tim. 6.14, 15.

3. That Jehovah (the Judge of all the earth) would lift up himself, and in some way or other make it publick∣ly appear, who are faithful to him, and who are the Apostates which have betrayed the interest of Christ and his people, Psal. 94.2. 1 King 18.36, 37, &c. 1 Sam. 14.12. Mal. 3.18. Psal. 99.6.8. Num. 16.16, 17. & 17.5, 8, 9. Gen. 18.25.

4. That the Lord will speedily a∣venge the blood of his servants shed upon Babylon, and take vengeance on all Civil Powers, for their oppression & cruelty against the Lords servants, and bring in the great day of Deliverance and Restauration to the whole Creation, Psal. 74.2, 18, 22. Jer. 51.35. Deut. 32.35, 41, 43. Psal. 94.1. Jer. 50.15. Isa. 34.4, 5. & 47, 34. Luk. 18.7, 8. Rev. 18.5. Act. 3.21. Rom. 8.19, 20, 21.

5. That the Lordc in wrath will remember mercie, 1. In finding out and punishing ACHANS and TROƲBLERS, that none (innocent) may suffer for the rebellion and Apo∣stacie of others, Num. 16.22. Josh. 7.24, 25. Gen. 18.23, 24. Psal. 125.4, 5. Isa. 3.10, 11. & 33.14, 15. &c. Psal. 32.6, 7. 2. That the Lord will be merci∣ful to his people in BABYLON, as he was to Lot in SODOM, and bring them forth, that they be not partakers of her plagues, Gen. 19.16. Rev. 18.4. Zach. 3.2. 2 Tim. 3.2, 3, 5. 2 Cor. 6.17, 18.

6. That the fulness of the Gentiles may come in, and all Israel be saved, Psal.

67.2. Gen. 49.10. Hab. 2.14. Isa. 25.7. & 32.6. & 35.6. & 43.19. Hos. 1.10, 11. & 3.5. Rom. 11.25, 26.

7. Whereas mens rebellion against the Lord, and their opposing HIS WORK, WAYS, KINGDOM and PEOPLE, is carried on under fair pretences, whereby many in their simplicity are led aside into great transgression against Jesus Christ, Their prayer is, that all such lyars, and dis∣sembling Hypocrites may daily be more discovered, and their designes bro∣ken, by some signal appearing of the Lord against them, Num. 16.15. Psal. 55.12, 15. Hos. 11.12. Ps. 140.8, 11. Isa. 27.3. 1 Sam. 15.17, 18. with Chap. 18.14.

8. As they cannot hold their peace for ZIONS SAKE, so the Lord is earnestly call'd upon, 1. that he will REMEMBER HER TREA∣CHEROƲS AND FALSE FRIENDS, viz. Church-members, Professors, Souldiers, Lawyers; all such as have basely betrayed her to the ENEMIE: Lam. 1.2. Psal. 41.9. & 55.12, 15. 2 Sam. 15.31. Jer. 18.20.

2. Not to forget the reproach and scandal which she suffers, by reason of their abominable hypocrisie and fals∣hood: having rendred the very NAME OF RELIGION odious to them that are without. Lam. 2.15. Rom. 2.14. Isa. 52.5. Ezek. 36.20, 26. Gen. 32.30. Eccl. 10.1. Amos 4.10. 3. That the tempta∣tions and afflictions now upon her may thorowly cleanse her, and make her meet for the masters use, Isa. 1.25. Mal. 3.5. Dan. 11, 35. 2 Tim. 2.21. 4. That the Lord will turn unto her a pure language, heal all breaches and divi••ions, that so her Children may serve him with one con∣sent. Zech. 3.9. 1 Cor. 1.10. Isa. 11.13. Psal. 134.1. Act. 2.1. 5. That the Spi∣rit from on High may be poured out upon all her Sons and daughters, where∣by their understanding may be opened to know all things, Joel. 2.28, 29. Act. 1.4. Luk. 24.49. Dan. 12.10. Amos 3.7. Rev. 22.10. Ioh. 14.16, 26. 1 Ioh. 2.20.

6. That she may have her Judges restored as at the first, and Pastors af∣ter GODS OWN HEART. Hence the Lord is daily cal'd upon to pluck up by the roots all false Of∣fices,

Ministries, Callings, Admini∣strations and Maintenance, both new and old, Isa. 1.26. Ier. 3.15. & 23.4. Ezek. 34.25. Mat. 15.13. Hos. 2.16, 17. Zech. 13.2. & 14.20, 21. Rev. 18.21. &c.

Lastly, seeing it will be a great and dreadful day, when the Lord shall an∣swer the prayers of his people, Even burn like an Oven; and who shall stand when God doth this? therefore is the Lord entreated to be so gratious unto his LITTLE ONES, as they may not be offended in what way or man∣ner soever his great work comes forth, but may be prepared to meet the Lord, and counted worthy to follow him, Mal. 4.1. Num. 24.23. Isa. 22.18, 19. & 25.9. 1 John 2.18. Luk. 21.36. A∣mos 4.12. These are the things which the faithful of the Land are praying for, and the Apostates scoffing at. But it is not their derision can make the promise of God of no effect,d Heaven and Earth (saith Christ) shall pass away, but my words shall not, pass a∣way.

CHAP. VI. Reasons, Wherefore the Lord will not be found of some People, though they call upon him in the Time of trouble.

First, BEcause in their prosperous con∣dition, when theye are grown thick, and covered with fatness, they will not know the Lord. Butf speak with a stiff-neck.g What is the Almighty, that we should serve him? and what profit should we have, if we pray unto him? we desire not the knowledge of his wayes, &c. Some people in seeking God are like a sort of Beggers, who standing at your door, will tell you, they make not a trade of begging, nei∣ther doe they come often, and had it not been for necessity, they would not have troubled you at this time. Are there not many (should they speak truth) must confess, this is their very case; they make no trade of begging, unless they are in some want:h God is not in all their thoughts; neither

would they seek him in their troubles at all, if they knew how to be helpt with∣out him. No doubt in the dayes of Noah, when the waters came and took away the wicked people out of their houses and beds; yea, fetcht them off from the high hils and mountains, where they fled for safety, there was bitter mourning and crying to the Lord, but all in vain; as they would not know him in their prosperity, so now he will not deliver them, wheni Fear, and the pit, and the snare are upon them. Job saith, God will not hear the hypocrite, when trouble cometh upon him: that is, seeing he cals not upon God (unless it be deceit∣fully and mockingly) but when great distress is upon him, therefore he shall be left to the destroyer, and no eye shall pity him. Hence it is, that the Scrip∣tures speak ofk Seeking the Lord while he may be found, and while he is neer: andl of the time accepted: andm while it is called to day: de∣noting, that men may forfeit their time, and come after the Gate of Grace is shut. And if so, then no time of find∣ing.

Besides, the Lord takes it as not sought unto, nor call'd upon, when men only cry to him in time of trouble. It is said of Saul,n He enquired not of the Lord, therefore he slew him: yet in another place it is,o When Saul enquired of the Lord, the Lord answered him not, neither by dreams, nor Ʋrim, nor by Prophets: the meaning is, when Saul knew not what to do, but saw the wrathful hand of God ready to cut him off by the Philistims, then (like a ma∣lefactor going to execution,) He en∣quires of the Lord; but this the Holy-Ghost cals, not enquiring, because it was only for his own end; and till great di∣stress came upon him, he regarded not the Lord, but had cast him off, & sought himself in every thing. The fox in a snare, looks wishly, hangs the head, will sigh extreamly, and you may see tears fall from his eyes; but all this will not serve his turn, nor save him from being knockt on the head. Reader, shouldst thou live to see an OLD HYPO∣CRITE under Divine wrath, thou wouldst see him just like a fox in a trap, his countenance altered, groan and sigh, as if his heart would break,

and tears at command. I have sinned, I have sinned, (will the OLD FOX say) in betraying that INNOCENT CAƲSE. But the Lord will neither trust him, nor beleeve him any more; his day is now come, in which the Judge of all the earth will pay him home, for all his former craft and falshood. So let all thy enemies perish O God. Judg. 5.31.

Secondly, Because theyp say, A Conspiracy; that is, mix themselves with the unhallowed lump, keep unsancti∣fied places and standings, in Babylon, and the last Apostacy, and soq not sepa∣rated from the corruptions and evils of the time:r Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing, and I will receive you, and I will be a father unto you, &c. Plainly shew∣ing, unless we forbear tos follow the multitude, or, Great men:t Come out of Babylon:u Have no fellow∣ship with the unfruitful works of dark∣ness: Andx depart from the tents of Corah, Dathan, and Abiram, and all such wicked men, the Lord will not be a Father to us, in answering our cries, when calamities and troubles are

upon us. What the Lord may doe in respect of his unbounded bowels, and free grace,y it is a thing too high for us. For he is many times better then his promise, and above it. But this I say: So long as men wrap themselves in the sin and guilt of others, plead for Baal, and endeavor to strengthen Ty∣rants in oppression and blood, follow Balak (as Balaam did) for the wages of iniquity; these cannot (thus doing) by any Scripture-promise, expect a time of finding: I speak of a temporal deli∣verance, as to bea hid in the day of the Lords anger.

There is a twofold separation which the Lord requires of his people at this time. 1. From things. 2. From persons. And the followers of the Lamb they do both. They are redeem∣ed from the earth; that is, from the carnal Church-Ministry, worship, and Government; they will not communi∣cate in any of their devised service, forms, customs, administrations, nor contribute any thing to their mainte∣nance. Numb. 7.3, 5. Neh. 10.23, 39. Likewise,† They are redeemed from among men: who these men are,

the Apostle shews, viz. the Apostates in the last days: MEN, that shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, proud, &c. from such turn aside. 2 Tim. 1.2, 5.

Charls 9. having a petition brought to him from the Admiral Chastillon, he refused to receive it, saying, If he will forsake the Rebels (meaning the Prote∣stants) and come to us, we will hear him: but so long as he encourageth the enemy, we will receive none of his Petitions. I wish with my Soul, that some eminent professors would lay things to heart: How can they think that the Lord will receive any of their Petitions, if not only they abide with his Enemies, and take their part openly against him, but seek to strengthen and maintain (what they can) the greatest revolt that e∣ver was made against Jesus Christ? It is said,b But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord: Why Noah more then others? why was the Lord better to him then to a whole world? He wasc A SEPARATIST, and a strict one too; for he made conscience of his ways, and wherein he saw others dif∣fered from truth and righteousness,

therein he differed from them.

Qu. But why are not many professors Separatists (like Noah) now, so to have a time of finding when the Flood comes?

Answ. To speak my thoughts, it is because of Self-love and Covetousness: Thesed two great leading sins (like two huge Beasts) open a wide Gap to the rest of the sins in the last Apostacie,e For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pier∣ced themselves thorow with many sor∣rows. Howbeit in some ground there are ill VVeeds of several sorts; yet commonly there are one or two rifer and ranker then others. I am the more confirm'd to think the last Apostacie is come, not onely because all the VVeeds appear foretold, but that Self-seeking and Covetousness, first named, are higher and ranker then the rest.

The Story of the Usurer may fit∣ly come in here: when he went abroad, people pointed at him, and shooke their heads; whereby he knew his way and trade was generally dislik'd: this sorely vex'd him, until he came home, and saw his Bags; then he would laugh, and say

to himself, Ha, ha, Now let them laugh at me, here is that makes a mends for all: and thus his grief was over. I know, it doth many times extreamly trouble some professors to hear and see what they do: That is, how they are con∣demn'd by all faithful people, for serving the lusts of men; and for coun∣tenancing Covenant-breakers, and such as have betrayed the glorious Cause of Christ. This (I say) vexeth them at the heart; and the more, because their Consciences cannot but check them for building again the things which they destroyed. Notwithstan∣ding, when they come home, and see the BAG,f what WEALTH IS GOTTEN BY THIS CRAFT, so much honor and preferment at Court, such a gainful place in the Ar∣my, so much per ann. in the Col∣ledge, such a fat living or augmenta∣tion in the Country; besides the pride and gallantry of their Wives and Children, all Ladies and Prince-like: Ha, ha, (say they) now let them laugh: what care we for the FIFTH MONARCHY-MEN, or their witness against us? they call us Time-servers,

Turn-coates, Court-flatterers, and such as will crouch for a morsel of bread. But these High-places, Offices and preferment, make us amends suf∣ficiently. Besides, what can their poorg son of Iesse do for us? But let them take this into the BAG too: As the Partridge sitteth on eggs, and hatcheth them not, so he that getteth riches, and not by right, shall leave them in the midst of his days, and at his end shal be a fool. Nurses count them good Chil∣dren which though they are ready to cry at every turn, yet are easily quieted with some toy. The Devil is little trou∣bled that men do weep and cry now and then, and are sometimes prick's at the heart for their corrupt walking; so that for a little honour, pleasure, profit, and such like toys, their con∣sciences are soon quieted. Again, I speak not this, as taking delight to discover the nakedness of professours: the Lord knows, my desire is, Thath the precious might be separated from the vile, and that none of Gods elect among the Back-sliders might be par∣takers of their plagues. And there∣fore in the Bowels of Jesus, I be∣seech

them to Consider,

1. What a sad thing it is, that men noti looking to themselves, should lose those things that they have wrought, and not receive a full reward. I have thought sometimes of Ioabs case, after he had fought many Battels; yea, the Lords Battels, ah, that his gray hairs should go to the grave under so much scandal and dishonour: But more sad is their case, who having opposed the Prelates, and fought valiantly for the truth; yea, (some of them) left their Country for the Gospels sake, should now for looking back,k Not be in the Assembly of Gods people, neither written in the writing of the House of Israel, neither enter into the Land of Israel, nor be mourned for as the prophets were, Oh my Father, my Father,l ah his Glory.

But, 2. And this I wish that they would seriously lay to heart, viz. how the dishonour of Gods great Name oc∣casioned by this late Apostacie, lies prin∣cipally at their door. Our holy profession had never been rendred so odious as it is, if Professours and Church-Mem∣bers had not been. Hence it is, when

some have been told of breaking their promises and e••gagements, and casting off the Lords work, and setting up their own interest: to name such and such professours and Church-Officers who went along with them, as if they did nothing without their counsel and encouragement. The old Non-conformists were wont to say of the Conformable Ministers, that, The best were the worst; meaning, those who subscribed to the Prelates, and used the Service and Ceremonies of the Church, (though otherwise good men) did more hinder the work of Reforma∣tion, and harden ignorant people in Errour and Superstition then, then all the ignorant and scandalous Priests of the Nation. And questionless it was so. And what may we say of the pre∣sent Conformists? The best are the worst. For howsoever in many things they walk better then the rest, and we hope better things of them as to their Soul-state; Yet considering how they have left the Lords work, and are fallen in with a worldly interest, and what e∣vil Instruments they have been in ob∣structing the good old cause, in

these respects and such like, it may be fairly asserted, The best are the worst; I say, the professor worse then the pro∣phane, and Church-Officers worse then the ignorant and scandalous parish-Priest; especially if it be minded, how many Simple hearts in City and Country have been deceiv'd by these men, and hindred from being faithful to Jesus Christ in their Generation-work. I shall conclude in Pauls words,m Every mans work shall be made mani∣fest: for the day shall declare it. Be∣cause it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every mans work of what sort it is, &c. If any mans work shall be burnt, he shall suffer loss; but he him∣self shall be saved: yet so, as by fire. What this fire means, is worthy of Consideration.

Thirdly, No time of finding, becausen their hands are full of Blood. The Hebrew hath Bloods, signifying how the Priests and False-prophets, by their flatteries and lies, destroyed the Souls of the people; and the Rulers, their bodies and estates, by oppression and cruelty. But the Allusion which the prophet here useth, notably sets forth

the impudent boldness of these men: It is taken from a Murtherer, who ha∣ving wash'd his hands in innocent Blood, comes and shews them to the Judge, as taking delight to have them seen in that Bloody colour. Much blood, precious blood was spilt in the late wars: the which some men by their falshood and breach of pro∣mise have not onely contracted to themselves, but bring their bloody hands to the Altar, lifting them up before the Lord, Angels and men, as glory∣ing (it seems) there lies the guilt of so much blood upon them.

I cannot forget Davids example: when they brought unto him the water of the well of Bethlem,o He would not drink thereof, but poured it out un∣to the Lord, saying, Be it far from me, O Lord, that I should do this: is not this the blood of the men that went in jeopardie of their lives? therefore he would not drink of it. It were well if some mens hearts would smite them as Davids did. Davids worthies only jeo∣parded their lives; no blood was spilt: but many of the Lords worthies in the late wars, did more then jeopard their

lives, for they lost them in the high-places of the field. But hath their Blood been poured out to the Lord, (as David did the water?) I ask againe, Hath it? or rather, have not some men drunk it themselves? And with this blood purchase Courts, Titles, Superi∣ority; with this blood clothe themselves and families (like the Glutton)p in purple and fine linen, and fare sump∣tuously every day: Do they not with this BLOOD persecute the very cause and interest of Christ for which it was spilt? yea more, do they not with this BLOOD build again that cursed Ierico, by which it was over∣thrown?q Wo to him that buildeth a Town w••th blood, and stablisheth a Citie by iniquity.r Wo to the bloody City, it is full of lies and robberie, and the prey departeth not.

As such men are unlike David, so like Nero and Iulian the Apostate, for all the world. The first having kil'd his own mother, perswaded the people (publica fortuna extinctam) that she was put to death for the publick good of the State. The other, when he o∣pened the temples of the Pagan gods,

and repaired their Altar, it was (se∣curitas reipublicae) for the safety of the Commonwealth: have there been none since, having murther'd the Common∣wealth, in her Laws, Liberties, Privi∣ledges, &c. and re-established old Po∣pish Idols, would make the Simple be∣lieve all is done for the publick good and safety of the people?r What shall be done unto thee, thou false tongue?

But to return to our Prophet: how∣soever both Priests and Princes have their hands full of blood; yet theys make many prayers: multiply prayer, saith the margin. Hence observe, 1. No people aret more forward in outward services, then Hypocrites and Apostates: for when they have cast off the power of Godliness, they will be the more busie about the form. 2. Whilst mens hands are full of blood, there is no Time of finding, though they multiply prayer. This later is plain in Davids case:u All the while he kept silence, and acknowledged not his sin (which doubtless was blood) hisx Bones were broken, and waxed old, and his moisture was turned into the drought of summer; that is, he could hear of no

joy and gladness, but lay roaring under pangs of conscience, having the strength of body and soul consum'd, through grief and mourning: if it were thus with David, for one mans blood, what may we think of their case, who (by pow∣er and policy) shall wrap themselves in the guilt and blood of many thousands; yea, more,y Shall crucifie to them∣selves the Son of God afresh, and put him to open shame; that is, shall treacher∣ously murther Jesus Christ in his righ∣teous cause: and which is more, shall deride and mock the Lords people, and persecute them, if they speak against them for such things?

Fourthly, Because of mens allowing themselves in some known wickedness. a If I regard wickedness in my heart (saith David) the Lord will not hear me. Ob∣serve, 1. He doth not say, If there be iniquity in my heart, but, if I regard it; that is, delight in it, and allow it, and would have it abide there as a friend and beloved. Hence we may see a difference between a sincere Chri∣stian, and a corrupt heart. A sheep by occasion may fal into mire and dirt; but he likes not to be there, he likes not the

place; whereas a swine in dirt, is where he would be: it is true, the choysest Christians are sometimes overtaken, & yet through Grace, they can say, We know nothing by our selves; that is, no evil which (knowingly) they approve of: but what God loves, they love, and what he hates they hate, whatsoe∣ver they know to be a duty and truth, they will do, and what is evil and sin∣ful forsake. If you cast stones or gra∣vel into a fountain, the water becomes thick and muddie: but within a little while, it purgeth it self again, and is clear and sweet as before. So a good man, by reason of temptations, is sometimes troubled, and passions rise in him: but through the power of Grace, he is soon restored to his for∣mer sweet and holy walking. But with the wicked it is not so: his heartb is like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest: always casting up mire and dirt.c Wickedness is sweet to him: he keeps it within his mouth. As men to keep their goods, have strong walls and doors about their houses; so have Reigning Hypocrites about them: some to write for them, others to preach

for them: some to fight for them; and all is, that the Hypocrites GOODS may not be lost: to wit, his pomp, pride, oppression, &c.

Quest. But how may it be known when a man regards iniquity in his heart?

Answ. 1. VVhen he corrupts mend by gifts and preferment, to defend his unrighteous doings.

2.e VVhen he fears not to commit the greatest sin, so he may sa∣tisfie his will and lust.

3. VVhen he willf fast, and pray, and weep, that he may the sooner effect his wicked designes.

4. VVheng he counts such his greatest enemies, who deal plainest with him about his foul miscarriages.

5.h VVhen no thing will make him blush or asham'd.

But secondly, This regarding iniqui∣ty is in the heart. The Scibes and Pha∣risees outwardly seem'd to be good men, religious and devout, (like the Hypocrites of our time) but Christ who knew their heart, shewed what they were: A brood of Vipers, painted sepulchres, their inward parts very rot∣tenness.

The Wood-picker (a little Bird) when she is seeking a place to breed in, lights on the side of a Tree, and with her Bill gives a knock; if she perceive the same to be hollow, then to work she goes, and with her Bill makes a little hole in the Tree, thorow which she creeps into the hollow part, and there builds her Nest, lays her eggs, and hatcheth her young ones. The Devil is like this Bird: when he comes to a professor, and by knocking him with preferment and profit, finds he is hollow-hearted, there he falls to work, and in he goes; here he hath his Nest, eggs, and young ones. And in truth, never had he entred into so many pro∣fessors, (as of late he hath done) but that after a little KNOCKING, (all this will I give thee) he perceiv'd they were hollow: I say, HOLLOW-HEARTED, notwithstanding their oaths, vows and engagements: neither was he deceived, (as we see by sad experience) for he hath found room enough in that hollow and rotten part, to build his Nest, and hatch his young ones. But what saith Christ of such people?i The last state of them

is worse then the first. There is little hope for men to have a time of finding, so long as Satan hath his Nest, eggs and birds in them.

Fiftly, Should some men be spared, it would encourage them to go on in their sinful ways; they would presume, grow more confident and vile, if possible. Had not Pharaoh and his host perished in the Red-sea, they would have been more inhumane and cruel then ever before.k Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil: that is, because the judgment of God is so long put off, wicked men plead as it were a prescri∣ption of impunity; & perswading them∣selves, that the execution of the sen∣tence (which is so long delayed) will ne∣ver be laid on them, hence are hardned and made worse in their sinful courses. In the Hebrew Text, their heart is full to do evil: that is, full of evil purpo∣ses, full of wicked imaginations, cursed plots and devises for the bringing forth the works of darkness; so full, that there is no room for the fear of Gods wrath, no room for the consideration

of their own danger, no room for the apprehension of their falshood, hypo∣crisie, backsliding, whereby to restrain them in any measure; but they run with a full stream into the practise of all kind of wickedness.

It is true,l God is angry (or anger∣ly threatneth) with the wicked every day: the sentence against every evil work, is already given: but because the execution is deferred, because wicked∣ness is not fo••thwith checked, blamed, punished, men think they shall be longer licensed in sinning. As the Stars, though in themselves very great, yet being seen a far off, seem to be lit∣tle: So Apostates, and other ungod∣ly people, perswading themselves the day of vengeance is a long time to come, they are little or nothing moved by it: if we bring this home to the sin∣ners of our time, we shall have ground to believe that their judgment is nigh.

For, 1. The Lord having through infinite clemencie, forborn them a while, and not fallen presently upon them, they are becomem the Scoffers in Peter, andn have belied the Lord, and said, It is not he, neither shall evil

come upon us, neither shall we see sword or famine. And the Prophets shall be∣come wind, and the word is not in them; that is, mock at Gods menaces, and jest at his judgments, as things that ne∣ver shall come to pass and be effected. As Agag, when he saw he was not cut off with the rest of the Amalekites, concludes,o Surely, the bitter∣ness of death is past: So because they were not swept away in such a month or such a yeer, what say they now?p The dayes are prolonged, and eve∣ry vision faileth. Because they do not immediately see the whole Prophesies accomplished, (concerning the Little Horn, the Last Apostacy, and the Beast which ascendeth out of the bottom∣less pit) they contemn them, and laugh at them, as though they should never be fulfill'd; and say,q We are delivered to do all these abominati∣ons. Though we have done such things (sworn falsely, and betrayed the inte∣rest of Christ and his people) and have been grievously threatned for the same; yet we are delivered from their THREATNING TESTIMONY, and are well, safe, and without fear

or danger, and shall go on, and pro∣sper still; yea, (and which is more) theyr Desire the day of the Lord; In a profane boldness provoke and dare the Lord to bring that once to pass, which he hath so long threatned. Where are hiss Battle-axes: thet vial-Angels:u his sore great and strong sword:x Let him make speed, and hasten his work that we may see it, and let the Counsel of the Holy One of Israel draw nigh, and come, that we may know it.

2. Iudgment not being speedily exe∣cuted, What is the evil that their heart is full of?y We will not have this man to reign over us. The war now is (like that of the Old Gyants) against Heaven, against God and Christ, how toa Break their bonds asunder, and cast their cords from them. As Herod no sooner heardb of one born King of the Jewes, but immediately he sought the young Child's life to destroy him. The very rumor of Christs coming forth to reign, and to break all corrupt powers, makes Tyrants mad, and it is their greatest care and study how to prevent him.

But 3. And let it be heeded, when men are emboldned and made worse, because judgment is delayed; this shews not only thatc Divine wrath is very nigh at hand, but it shall rest and abide upon them,d till they are consum'd to ashes (as fire doth wood) No time of finding,e for their prayers, cries and tears the Lord hates and de∣spiseth.

Sixthly, It is much to the prayse and Glory of God, when Apostates, Hypocrites, and other corrupt people, have not a time of finding.

Quest. Wherein is the Lord ho∣nored, not being found of his people?

Answ. 1. In vindicating his Justice, Providence, and Great Name. When God is silent, and spares Hypo∣crites,f They thinke him like them∣selves, altogether as they are. As the Tyrant having a safe passage home∣ward, thought the gods well pleased with his robbery: Thus do wicked men; if they prosper in unrighteous ways, or see others prosper therein:g Their heart is as fat as grease; and are ready to say,h The Lord will not do good, neither will he do evil: nay,

they begin to call in question his Ju∣stice and Providence.i Every one that doth evil, is good in the sight of the Lord, and he delighteth in them; that is, accepteth and approveth of the wicked, justifies them; yea more, takes pleasure in them. How many in these late years, by their Atheistical conceits, and blasphemous speeches, have wearied and vexed the Lord! and whence hath it risen?k Where is the God of Judgment? As if there were no Providence, no God that did judge and govern things upon earth, because he doth not presently punish the workers of iniquity. As one not long since most blasphemously sayd, If he be a God, why doth he not shew his judgment upon such a one? I could name both. Now howsoever many reasons might be given for the prosperity of the wicked, and their impunity, yet doubtless, the glory of God is exceed∣ingly manifested in his Government and Administration, when he breaks the power of the proud, and makes them like ashes under the soles of his feet.l Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glo∣rifie thy name? &c. for thy judgments

are made manifest. By that revenging stroke from Heaven which reach'd Iu∣lian the Apostate, many who formerly had spoken wickedly of Christ, repent∣ed, and acknowledged their blasphe∣mie, and gave glory to him. In some such way (I am perswaded) will the Lord vindicate his Providence and Ju∣stice; namely, by making SOME MEN publick Examples of his wrath: such I mean, who by their false-swearing, and horrible hypocrisie (and prospering a while therein) have oc∣casioned many to have had hard thoughts of God: WHERE IS THE GOD OF JƲDGMENT?

Memorable is that story of Amu∣rath at the battle of Varna: when he saw the slaughter of his men, and all things brought into extreame danger, he pluckt out of his bosom the writing wherein the late League was compri∣sed; and holding it up in his hand, with his eyes lift up to heaven, said, Behold thou crucified Christ, this is the League thy Christians in thy name made with me; and they have without cause vio∣lated: Now if thou be God, as they say thou art, and as we dream, revenge the

wrong now done unto thy Name and me, and shew thy power upon thy perjurious people, who in their deeds deny thee their God. VVas a Turk heard against I∣dolaters, for Covenant-breaking, And will not the Lord much more bow his ear to the strong cries of his children, holding up in their hands the Pro∣testations, Vows, and solemn Ingage∣ments (not of Papists, but) of great professors, which they publickly have broken with God and men; when they shall say, (as still they do) Behold Lord, see here, these are the Oaths, Attesta∣tions and promises, which thy great pro∣fessors have made with thee, and for the interest of thy Son and Zion; and with∣out any cause (but to satisfie their own lusts) they have violated: Now there∣fore, as thou art a jealous God, and tender of thy great Name, Glory, Providence; so shew thy great Power, upon these false and dissembling people, who in their works deny thee their God?

Secondly, By making himself glori∣ously known in his truth and cause. That Saul had no time of finding, but was left of God in the day of distress; this made way for Davids kingdome: So

when Tyrants are broken in their pow∣er and Government, it is in order to the exalting of Jesus Christ in his king∣dome and rights.m The Lord is known by the judgments which he execu∣teth: and till then, his Name is not feared, his truth and cause denyed, and his honour is laid in the dust. But when the Lord, by destroying the e∣nemies of his Glory, shall put a Crown upon his GOOD OLD CAUSE: then it shall be said,n Verily he is a God that judgeth in the earth. Ando there is none else. Andp the e∣nemies (as Lawyers, Priests, Souldi∣ers, and Apostate-professors) shall be found lyars.q I will stretch out my hand upon them, and make the Land desolate; yea, more desolate then the wilderness toward Diblath in all their habitations. But what will the Lord get by this? And they shall know that I am the Lord. As if he should say, Their loss shall be my gaine; their fall, my rising: for whereas by their Covenant-breaking, and horrible A∣postacie, they have brought my Name and Glory under reproach; I will re∣cover all again upon their mine.

Was not the Lord eminently known in this Nation, when he executed judg∣ment upon the King and Prelates, and that party? To my knowledge,r the fear of Gods people fell upon the Na∣tions about us: and they confest the Lord had done great things for us, and began to enquire after our good cause, and had honourable thoughts of it. But true it is, since this unblessed A∣postacie came up, (occasioned by pro∣fessours) they judge otherwise both of us and it. As for the English pro∣fessours, they call them, A pack of dis∣semblers; their profession, falshood and craft; and the good old Cause (so sig∣nally own'd by the Lord) they spurn at it; nay more, (and truly I mourn as I wite it) by reason of the gross miscarriages of some Professours, the very Name of Religion is become so odious, that they have made Ballads and Songs against it, and they are sung by base fellows up and down the Na∣tion; and what is the Burden of their Song? No Cheater like the Profes∣sour.

But though this be so, yet when the Lord shall execute judgment upon

those men who have brought such dis∣honour and reproach to him, and so build the old wast places, and be called, The repairer of the breach, and re∣storer of paths to dwell in: Then he will recover the glory of his great Name, and be more admired of the Na∣tions then before, When the Scribes and Pharisees had put Christ to death, what ado they made to have kept him in the grave, and that he might not rise again •• buts they imagined a vain thing. It was not the great stone which they rolled before the door of the Sepul∣chre, nor their sealing it, nor setting Souldiers to watch, that could do it: but he rose in the spight of them all,t and declared himself to be the Son of God. Since they crucified the Lords Cause, what hath been their work? but how to keep it from rising. Tru∣ly little else hath been thought of, or lookt after: the help that is called for from this party, and the other, it is onely to strengthen the hands of the wicked. Now as the Lord will not easily part with his glory, so (I think) it will not be recovered without exe∣cuting judgement upon the enemies

of it, and reviving his glorious work and cause again: but in what case then are Revolters? for if God in this way be glorified, they must needs be a∣sham'd. If the Lord do magnifie his great Name, by lifting up the interest of Christ and his people, it must be to the shame and confusion of their faces, who have brought it under foot. As those that have been whores to great men, being cast off, or their masters dead, every body points at them and scorns them; there goes one that was such a mans whore, fie upon her: no less detested will they be, who have served the unclean interest of men. The time (I am perswaded) is nigh, that they shall not shew their heads abroad, but men, women, and children will point at them, saying, LOE, THERE WALKS ONE, A PROFESSOR, A CHURCH-MEMBER, WHO FOR A SALARY, A PLACE, AN OFFICE, A MONOPOLY, PRO∣STITUTED HIS HONESTY, FAITH, CONSCIENCE, COUN∣TRY, TO THE LUST AND WILL OF MEN.

Thirdly, The Lord not granting a

time of finding unto some, but leaving them to perish under wrath, is glorified of many by it. I have been thinking some∣times, what might be the cause, that in pouring out the seven last plagues, we finde nor anyu to give glory to the God of Heaven, but when the seven thousand were slain in the Earth-quake. Now my opinion is, in the destructi∣on of the Last Apostacy (under the first vial) Gods Justice, Holiness, wis∣dome, &c. will occasion some extra∣ordinary glory to be given to him. For whereas he begins with a professing peo∣ple, and spares them not; this will be more to the prayse of his Justice, then when his wrath afterwards fals upon I∣dolaters, and such as know not God. And hence it is, that the Mourners in Zion, cry day and night with a loud voyce to him that sits on the Cloud,x Thrust in thy sickle and reap, for the time is come for thee to reap, for the harvest of the Earth-Apostacy is ripe. Not that they fret at the prosperity of evil doers, or are impatient under their oppressions, or delight in blood; but because of the exceeding great glory (they know) Jesus Christ will have

by it. When weeds overtop the corn, bryars and thorns are grown great and thick, high above the vine, unless they are cut down, there will be no harvest, no vintage.y When thy judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness. When the thorns and bryars, which are grown great and high among us, are pluckt up by the roots, then will this Nation learn righteousness: then shall the Lord have a glorious harvest and vin∣tage, even sweet and blessed fruit; then there will be a generation of Professors sincere, single hearted, faithful to God, and faithful with men: whereas now too many area Lovers of them∣selves, Covetous, Boasters, Proud, Blas∣phemers, Ʋnthank-ful, Ʋnholy, Truce∣breakers, Traytors, &c. Having a form of Godliness, but denying the power thereof.

Howsoever it be true,b That the wicked is reserved to the day of de∣struction; yet this day and destruction is,c For God's own glory: but when they shall be brought forth to the day of wrath, how is he then glorified? Tru∣ly in nothing more, then when others

seeing the vengeance: not only justifie it, but are instructed, and kiss the Son, and stand in awe, and sin not.d Zion heareth and rejoyceth, and glad are the daughters of Iudah, because of thy judg∣ments, Jehovah. Those people which are a while without the Sun, no soon∣er have a sight thereof, but leap and clap their hands for joy, as having now their light and life and comforts resto∣red to them. So long as men are un∣der Tyranny and oppression (which will be till the vial-plagues be gone) what have they, but night and dark∣ness, sorrows and vexations continu∣ally? Now Christ rising in judgement, removes these heavy yokes and bur∣dens, and plants peace and righteous∣ness in the Earth. Hence not only will the righteous shout for joy, but the Lord every where praysed by all sorts of people, even the whole Creati∣on.

Fourthly, As no people by their sins do so much press and burden the Lord, as back-sliders, and luke-warm Professors; so he is not at rest and satisfied, until he have throughly executed his judgment upon them. For this we have an exam∣ple

in the old Apostate Israel, when they fell into the hands of their ene∣mies, were plundred and spoyl'd, had their children ston'd, and tumbled in blood, their City and Temple burnt to ashes, and all their power, glory and greatness layd in the dust; then God caused his fury to rest, his jealousie to depart; then was he quiet and still, and angry no more. The Lord seems to be troubled and unquiet, before his judgment is executed; but when that is once done (especially upon an Hypo∣critical Nation) then he is at rest, pa∣cified and comforted.e Thus shall mine anger be accomplished, and I will cause my fury to rest upon them, and I will be COMFORTED: and they shall know, that I the Lord have spoken it in my zeal, when I have accomplished my fury in them. Again,f It is my desire, that I should chastise them. As a man that longs for a thing, is unsatis∣fied, and restless till he have it; so the Lord seeing them grown desperately wicked,g Will ease himself, with their just punishment.

Before Ionah had judgment past up∣on him,h There was a great wind,

and a mighty tempest in the sea; the Lords displeasure and anger was up, and let out: but when Ionah was cast into the sea, when justice was done upon him, it is said, the sea ceased from her raging. God is quiet first, then the waters. So when judgment was exe∣cuted upon Achan, the Text saith,i The Lord turned from the fierceness of his anger. Again, when judgment was executed upon the bloody house of Saul;k After that, God was intreat∣ed for the Land. Till that was done, the Lord was not at rest, his jealousie and wrath ceased not. The Lord threatens to bring the Assyrian upon the Iews, who should take away their fair Jewels, strip them, and leave them naked and bare, burn their houses, and thrust them thorow with the sword; and what then?l So will I make my fury towards thee to rest, and my jealousie shall depart from thee, and I will be quiet, and will be no more angry.m The indignation shall cease, and mine anger in their destruction: as if he should say, when I have destroyed them, and layd all waste, then I shall have ease, my anger and fury will

cease.n They hanged Haman upon the gallows, and then was the Kings wrath pacified.

And as the Lord is not quiet and sa∣tisfied, till he have executed judgment upon Apostates; neither is he at ease, until he have done the like upon Luke∣warm Professors.o Because thou art neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. When a man hath something upon his stomack, which he cannot brook, but it is loathsome to him, he hath no ease or quiet, till he have cast it up. They that are not hot, having not the power of Godliness; nor cold, having yet the form, they are a burden and trouble to Jesus Christ, till he have (by some judgment) quitted himself of them. For conclusion, I have a few things to propound, to the earth-thriving Professors of this age, who are at ease in their fat places.

1. Whether the Lord be not more prest and burdened with the sins of Re∣volters and luke-warm professors, then with the sins of any other people?

2. Whether any people since the rise of the Beast, have made a greater revolt from God, or have been more

Luke-warm (all things considered) then the present English Revolters.

3. Whether the latter Apostacie mentioned by Paul, 2 Tim. 3.1, 2, 3. be not in every particular (to the life) fulfilled in them.

4. Whether the Lord can be at rest, satisfied and comforted, till he have throughly executed his judgment upon such enemies of his Glory, Cause and Kingdom.

5. Seeing it is not the Dragon, but his Tail, that drew the third part of the Stars of Heaven, and did cast them to the Earth;

I query, 1. Who is meant by the Tail of the Dragon.

2. Who are the fallen Stars?

3. Unto which of the Apostacies do they belong? for to one they must, if not to both.

Seventhly, Because men mourn and weep for the punishment of their sins, but not for their sins which caused the pu∣nishment. As the Dog under the whip, howls and cries for the pain, but not for the fault and cause of his beating. Thus did the old Jews, when the A∣morites came out against them, and

chased them as Bees do, and destroyed them in Seir, even unto Hormah,p They returned and wept before the Lord: but the Lord would not hearken unto their voyce. And why so? be∣cause they lamented the loss of their Brethren, but not their sins (not their Apostacie, Rebellion, Ʋnbelief,) which provoked the Lord to smite them. When news came that the English were kil'd like so many Flies in Hispaniola; so shamefully destroyed, as I think ne∣ver the like dishonour and shame be∣fel the Nation before; (the Lord by the judgment signally shewing his dis∣pleasure against them) It is true, there was fasting and mourning; but why? (as the old Jews did) Because their brethen were slain. But was there any repenting of the Cause? was there any sincere acknowledgment of the sins which had provoked the Lord so extreamly against them? who like Da∣vid spake then to the Lord, and said, Is it not I that commanded the people to to be numbred? even I it is that have sinned, and done evil indeed. But as for these sheep, what have they done? Let thine hand, I pray thee, O Lord my God,

be on me, and on my fathers house; but not on thy people, that they should be plagued. David had a weeping heart besides weeping eyes, and was no Hypocrite. But the Crocodile (as some write) having devoured a man, weeps over the Skull, when nothing else is left; not repenting of his Deed, but because on that bone there re∣mains no flesh to eat. The Hierogly∣phick is applyed to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and WEEPING-HYPOCRITES, who will shed tears when they have murthered the people: yet so, as not repenting for what they have done; but fearing lest they should not have enough of MANS BLOOD to drink and swallow down.

Quest. But if men acknowledge their sins before the Lord, with fasting and weeping; shall they have a time of finding, doing no more?

I answer, No,q Except they turn from their evil way, and from the violence that is in their hands. When Joshua, and the rest of the congrega∣tion, knew who was the TROUBLER, had they onely acknowledged that great wickedness, and mourned for it.

I say, done no more, there had been no time of finding: and so much the Lord tels them,r except you destroy the accursed thing from among you, I will not be with you any more.

So when it was told David, thats The three years famine was for Saul and his bloody house, because he slew the Gi∣beonites: Had there been no more 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••••nfessing the sin, and asking for∣giveness, the Lord would not have been intreated for the Land. So it may be said of all others in the like case, should they confess their Apostacy, Falshood, Oppression, &c. I say, publickly ac∣knowledge the same before God, An∣gels, and men, appoint solemn days of fasts to weep and mourn for their sins; Nevertheless except THE ACCUR∣SED THING BE DESTROY'D, the TROUBLER ston'd, and judgment executed upon the BLOODY HOUSE OF SAUL, there is no time of finding, neither will the Lord re∣gard such things: and this the Scrip∣ture makes good,t He that cover∣eth his sins, shall not prosper; whose confesseth and FORSAKETH them, shall have mercy. If it be so, in what

case then are such men, who are so far from forsaking their sins, as they will not confess them; but call evil good, &c. yea more, make account by keep∣ing the Accursed thing, to prosper, and to carry all before them, in spight (as it were) of God, and of his Son, and Zion. But the perversness of transgres∣sors shall destroy them. Prov. 11.3.

CHAP. VII. How Saints may know it is a Time of Finding.

First, WHen a man findes, that all distractions and unquietnesses are removed from him, and a sweet calm breathes upon his Spirit.u I sought the Lord (saith David) and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. Again, This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles. What his fears and troubles were, the title of the Psalm shews: David for fear of Saul, goes to Achish King of Gath; and being there, he is in more fear then before; Inso∣much

(to save his life) he usethx strange gestures, indeed not beseeming a man, much less the Lords anoynted: But what doth he else? Inwardly his soul is calling upon God; and finding that all terrors and amazements were over, and his spirit quiet, he concludes, it was a time of finding. You shall see in time of much rain, as the waters run down the hils, they make a great noise, by reason of the rubs in their way; but no sooner are they fallen in, and closed with the river, but the hissing is ceas∣ed, and all is quiet and still. Oh! the unquietness sometimes of a poor soul, by reason of the multitude of RƲBS; what through troubles without, and fears within, there is a strange noise, confus'd, like the noise of many waters.y I am weary with my groaning.a My throat is dryed, all the night make I my bed to swim; I water my couch with tears; mine eyes fayl, while I wait for my God. Notwithstanding all this, no sooner is this poor trembling shrub fal∣len into the stream of love, and sweet∣ly closeth with it, but all casting down and disquietness is over:b Iehovah is my light and my salvation, for whom

should I fear? Jehovah is the strength of my life, for whom should I dread?

VVe have the like example in David another time, when Absalom made that unnatural rebellion against him: at first, he wasc much troubled; ford the conspiracy was great, and the people multiplyed still with Absalom: but when he poured out his Soul before the Lord, he had that given in to him, as he neither feared the number which the Traytor had with him, nor the hel∣lish counsel which Ahitophel might give him. If a man should see a Lyon or Bear coming fiercely against him, this could not but at first amaze him; not∣withstanding, if he should perceive a place of safety by him, and run to it, and see himself in it; now he would fear no more. The malice and wrath of Persecutors, their threatnings, banish∣ment, imprisonment, ruine of families, and killing the body, doth at first startle and affright a good man; but having been with the Lord, and graciously found him, he fears not what any Ty∣rant can do, cares not for his big words and stout looks; for he sees the Tyrant bound, and knows the Lord will not

unchaine him, neither suffer him to stir, otherwise then it shall make for the glory of his great name, ine the salvation of the one, and perdition of the other.

It was an evident sign, that the Lord answered not Saul, seeing his terror and trembling continued upon his heart. Is not that Scripture in part fulfill'd at this day,f The sinners in Zion are afrayd, fearfulness hath surpri∣zed the Hypocrites? Is not Cains case, the condition of many?g they think every one that meets them will kill them.h In the midst of laughter their hearts are full of sorrow.i Ma∣gor-Missabib, fear is round about them.k A dreadful sound is in their ear. They dream of danger when they sleep, and where ever they come,l Have no assurance of their lives. Oh! what fantastick and pannick fears, and Sata∣nical delusions, an unquiet guilty con∣science causeth. He that hath a minde to hurt others, fears it is in the minde of every one to hurt him. But what may we think of such people? Tru∣ly I think, if the Lord had any regard to their prayers, he would not leave

them under such continual terror and dreadful amazement.m A good man shall not be afraid of any evil ti∣dings. But these people, whenn they have heard any evil tidings, they are faint-hearted. And though it be but a Hear-say, and a Noise, and nothing in it; yet they tremble, as if they saw Death, Hell, and Judgment, and all ready to take hold of them. VVhen news was brought unto Lewis, of the death of his Mother, perceiving by the countenance of the messengers, that they were ready to tell him something that would afflict his heart; Let me pray first (saith he) and then speak what ye have to say. A man may be sure it is a time of finding, when he can experience, not onely present fears remov'd, but his spirit brought up in∣to such a gracious frame, as he can quietly hear any thing without dis∣honouring God, through murmuring and sinful passions, either in his thoughts, speech, or action.

Secondly, It is a time of finding, when the Lords people faint not in their SEE∣KING, but are kept up, and have life and power given them to persist and per∣severe

to the end. As fresh Oyl poured often into the Lamp, preserves the light from going out; so their groan∣ings and cries cease not day nor night, through fresh supplies of the Spirit.o He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might, he encreaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary; and the young men shall utterly fall: But they that wait upon the Lord, shall renew their strength: they shall mount up with wings as Eagles: they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. The meaning is, whereas proud Hypocries,p trusting to their own strength, power, parts, gifts, lose what they have, and make Ship-wrack of all; On the other side, such as are poor andq despised things of the world,r God makes his power to appear in their weakness. For thoughs of them∣selves they can do nothing, yet he enables themt to do any thing: And when they seemu utterly spent, they have a new supply of strength to enable them to bear up, and hold out; and thusx he perfecteth the good work begun in them. And indeed this is a

gracious return of prayer: when the soul is not onely strengthened and e∣nabled to hold out, but is sweetly rai∣sed and enlarged in the work. Though we have not the thing we ask, yet if we can sigh more, and weep more for it then we did: Here is a time of find∣ing; yea, such a FINDING, as it is much better sometimes to be kept up (by fresh supplies of the Spirit) in sighs and tears, then to have presently what is ask'd. As the Husbandman, the more seed he sows, the larger is his Crop at harvest. Doth the Lord keep thee sowing in tears? doth he supply thee with precious seed? Oh, it is a blessing of blessings: thy reapingy in due season shall be accordingly. I know Satan and Hypocrites are ready to reproach us, with the little profit we have by our mournings: You have been (say they) these three or four years in tears, & nothing but sighing & crying out against Self-seekers, Oppressors, Co∣venant-breakers: but what hearing-time have ye had?a What profit is it that ye have walked mournfully before the Lord of Hosts? To this we answer, Whereas we have not fainted, but

have been kept up in the work all this time; yea, have had such fresh springs of encouragement and enlargement, that our tears and sighing, the last to be more then the first: Hence we are sa∣tisfied, that the ears of the Lord of Sabboth have been open to our prayers. Many and great were the discourage∣ments whichb the woman of Ca∣naan met with, when she besought Christ for her daughter: 1. Christ goes away from her, as if he would not hear her: when she had followed him, and gotten a word from him, what was it? truly a hard saying, He is not sent unto such as she. Well, she faints not, neither is weary, but continues her cry, Lord, Lord, have mercy upon me. VVhat follows next? that her request was unseemly, unrea∣sonable, viz. To cast Childrens bread to Dogs. A man would think whilst Christ carried himself thus towards her, it was no time of finding; whereas in truth she found him all the while: I say, all this time that these discourage∣ments and temptations lay upon her, it was A TIME OF FINDING. But you will say, How? I answer, both

in keeping up her soul, that she fain∣ted not; and in making way for the discovery of that great faith, which he gave her. So that it was better for the woman that she was defer'd a while and strengthened in the work, then to have had her request sooner granted. To you therefore my Brethren and Companions in Tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, this I would humbly send to you: whereas the Lord hath strengthned you in mourning and crying against the Abominations of the last Apostacie; it is not onely matter of comfort to as∣sure you that there hath been a time of finding; but also (and note it well) there is a blessing in it, and much di∣vine love: Oh it is love indeed, un∣speakable, when the Lord draws from us abundance of tears and groans, and enables us to wait long before he gives the blessing.

A word likewise to our DISSEN∣TING-BRETHREN, whose mourning of late is turned into laugh∣ter, and their heaviness to joy. Josephs afflictions are no more remembred, neither the oppression and cry of the

poor and needyc Their heart is not now in the house of mourning, but in the house of mirth. As if they were pla∣ced in the earth (as Leviathan in the Sea) only to take their sport and pa∣stime therein. Here lies the difference between you and your Brethren; you laugh, and are more merry then you u∣sed to be, because of the advantages you have by these corrupt times; where∣as your poor Brethren are more in tears and in bitterness of Soul (these 3. or 4. yeers) then they us'd to be, for the great dishonor, scandal, and re∣proach which you have brought to the name of God, and profession of Religi∣on, by assisting and justifying of mens INTEREST against the interest of Christ and his people: hear what the Lord saith to both;d Blessed are ye that weep NOW, for ye shall laugh,e Woe unto you that laugh NOW, for ye shall mourn and weep.

Thirdly, When Mourners have such a return of prayer, as they rest fully sa∣tisfied therein. My meaning is, the Lord perswades their hearts, that he will so answer the travel of their Souls, as all things shall work together to his

Glory, and their comfort and content: and thus had Paul a time of finding, when the Lord told him,f My grace is sufficient for thee, for my strength is made perfect in weakness: as if he should say, Though I will not remove sud∣denly this wicked Angel from thee, yet I will so fortifie thee with my grace against all his fiery darts, that thou shalt be more then a conqueror, and get the victory over him: and the greater thy assaults and temptations are, and the weaker thou art by reason of infirmi∣ties; the stronger my Grace shall be in supporting thee in all assaults of temp∣tations. As a loving mother, whilst the childe cries, she takes him on her lap, wipes off the tears from his eyes, and kisseth him often, and suffers him not to goe away, till he laughs again, of the content and satisfaction which he hath; In such a way deals our Hea∣venly Father with his Mourning chil∣dren; as their cheeks are running down with tears, he takes them in his arms, and kisseth them with the kisses of his mouth, and speaks so comfortably to the heart, as they goe away with their

gmouths filled with laughter, and their tongues with singing.

And such a time of finding, David often had: we find him in the Psalms, to make very sad complaints, by reason of the great afflictions and troubles which lay upon him: nevertheless in the close,h rejoyceth, and giveth thanks to God; signifying no doubt, he had received Issachar's portion,i sa∣tisfied with favor, and full with the bles∣sing of the Lord. For howsoever he was not certain of the time of his de∣liverance, neither how, and in what manner he should be delivered; yet this he knew (and by the Spirit it was confirm'd to him) that it should go wel with him; and what was best for him, he should have; and every thing pro∣mis'd him, should be made good. That saying of Solomon may have place here,k The righteous eateth to the satis∣fying of his Soul, but the belly of the wicked shall want: these sentences are both true, applyed to sincere Christi∣ans and Hypocrites, in respect of Soul-satisfaction. The former are brought intol the banquetting house, and havem Loves for delights.n fat things

full of marrow, and wines on the lees, well refined: what can a man have more at a feast then content, and satisfied in whatsoever he desires? such a FIL∣LING have those at the throne of Grace; it is a LOVE-FEAST where Christ and the Soul banquet and re∣joyce together; yea, sometimes there is such an overflowing-fulness, as they are constrained to say, It is enough Lord, it is enough, I am satisfied with the fulness of joy and pleasures at thy right hand. But the Hypocrites belly shall want; did he finde no more satis∣faction in his falshood and craft, then in fasting and praying, he would soon give up the trade, or starve. If a man being extream hungry, instead of whol∣some meat, should take some poyso∣nous thing, his misery and pain would be greater then before. That which Hypocrites and Apostates suck from duties, is (spider-like) only poyson; for their unbeleef and fears do rise, and they are afterward more unquiet and restless then before: and hence it is, that after they have fasted and prayed, they have usually in hand one pestilent design or other.

Quest. But doe not Hypocrites and Apostates finde Soul-satisfaction in fasting, praying, and other Ordinan∣ces?

Answ. 1. Imaginary they may, but truly and really they doe not; for here that is made good,o The Lord of Hosts curseth their blessings. Besides, what Soul-satisfaction can there be had in things whichp God hates and de∣spiseth, andq are an abomination to him? As a man in his sleep dreames he eats and drinks largely, but when he awakes, findes himself almost dead for hunger; or like little children, sucking a stick or finger in their mouths are satisfied with it, though they draw no sweetness out: So Hypocrites (asr filthy dreamers) fancy a feeding, and please themselves (like children) with nothing; it being the will of God, that they should be hardned and ripe∣ned for judgment in such a way.

But 2. There is a satisfaction which Hypocrites and Apostates have by fasting and praying: for hereby they doe deceive others, and the more easily carry on their own designs. As I have heard of a GREAT HY∣POCRITE,

who having by his weep∣ing, prevailed with some honest men to think better of his actions, then they did before; no sooner were their backs turned, but he laughed at them, and cal'd them fools, that they should be∣lieve any more, or trust him for his tears. Thus they are like the Ma∣gician, which had the enchanted Egg; howsoever, being broken, there was nothing but wind in it; yet many (be∣witched by him) thought it had a world of happiness.

A weeping Hypocrite knows well enough, were his prayers and tears discovered, there is nothing but JƲG∣LING in them: they are all wind, lies and falshood; nevertheless, by a kind of enchantment, the simple are made to believe there is a world of truth and love to the good old cause, un∣der the Egg-shell of ar dis-figured (Jesuitical) face. But leaving Hy∣pocrites to the great day of discove∣ry.

For those who walk uprightly, times of finding must needs be satisfactory of the experience they have of Divine Love. If the Bride knows she is ta∣ken

up in the Heart-love of her Friend, though he should say nothing to her of what he would do for her; yet she is sure he will look after her, and provide for her, that she wants nothing. So a Saint taken into the bowels of Jesus, needs nothing more: for here he sees all things,s Whether Paul, or A∣pollo, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come, all are his. And so much he sweet∣ly experienceth, to a full content of his soul.

Fourthly, It is a time of finding when mourners in Zion have the things given them, and done for them, which they asked. As the Fish is caught while the Fisher is angling for her, so is the promise:t While they are yet speaking, I will hear. Again,u Thou shalt call, and the Lord shall an∣swer: thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am. Such a time of finding hadx Jacob,y Moses,a Je∣hoshaphat,b Hezekiah,c E∣lias,d Daniel, &c.

Neither hath the Lords hand been shortned, or his ear heavy (in this very thing) toward his present mour∣ners:

for many of the great things which they have sought with tears, he hath given them in according to their hearts desire: so that their sowing in tears hath not been without some pre∣tious fruit, as to a harvest already.

Quest. Wherein hath the Lord an∣swered the prayers of his people, in gi∣ving them already what they asked?

Answ. 1. Many have been the sighs and groans which they have pour∣ed forth before the Lord, that he would discover all deceitful workers, take a∣way their vizard and sheeps-clothing, that so the foulness, and wolvishness of their ways might bee known, andf their folly manifest unto all men. True it is, when the Apostacy first broke forth, many good peopleg Beleeving all things, and hoping all things) had some hope, that the Covenant-breakers, under their publick miscarriages, had secretly some good intent to promote, not their own interest, but Christ's and his people. Hence for a while they were silent, judging the best: but as the Apes were known by the nuts, though taken for men before, and ad∣mired for their dancing: So it was not

long after some had taken greatness and power upon them, but such ambi∣tion, oppression, covetousness, and BASE-SELF appeared, as honest people every where perceiv'd, they were APES, Revolters, the very men characterized byh Paul in Timothy, howsoever formerly deemed otherwise. That this time of finding may the better appear, let us consider some particu∣lars, wherein the Lord hath most gra∣tiously answered the prayers of his peo∣ple in unmasking evil men.

1. Their unthank fulness; this isi one character of the Last Apostates: & I am perswaded, there is no History (Divine or Humane) of men more monstrous, ungrateful & inhumane towards their friends and Benefactors, then some of late have been. Toads leave their poyson, where they had shelter and refreshment, and the Eagle kils the Swan that nourisheth her. Are not good men just so serv'd? those who have sheltred the Backsliders, kept them a∣live, and rais'd them up, how are they rewarded for it, but with poyson and murther? for they study and watch, how to render evil for good. Here

we have the truth of that Proverb,k As he that bindeth a stone in a sling, so is he that giveth honor to a fool. If you fling a stone up into the ayr, and mount it above the clouds, there it will not tarry, but presently fals down again, chusing rather a dunghil, or some such filthy place to be in. When some men were first raised up, their places were high, honorable and lawful; but they would not abide there, but be on a dunghil rather, where they might wal∣low in luxury, pride, wantonness, and have dirt enough to cast on the faces of their best friends.

2. Committing the same sins, which formerly they condemn'd in others. As one said of the Trent-Fathers, They would pare other mens nayls, but let their own grow: So the excess, riot, ambition, oppression, &c. of former Kings and Bi∣shops, these must be par'd and cut off; though themselves in the mean time more sinful in the same ways and cour∣ses. Who spake more against cove∣tousness then Crassus, and yet who more covetous? who wrote more a∣gainst the Title of Ʋniversal Bishop

then Gregory the Great? yet no man more liked it, and affected it, then him∣self: so Sylla and Richard the third commanded other men to be sober and honest, and yet none worse then them∣selves: who was he that would have no Government by Kings, because of their wastful Courts, and putting the Nation to unnecessary charges in maintaining the pride of their chil∣dren? and who is he that hath been more lavish and expensive then any before him? What a deal of good do∣ctrine have some men in their sermons, and so in their books, concerning hu∣mility, self-denyal, contentment, and to mortifie the members of the body! Oh! what a noise have they made a∣gainst the world, this bewitching-world, and that men should not seek great things, honor, riches, Court-Promotion! In their words and writings, here all is dung, and vanity of vanities: But should a man come home to their practise, and observe what heaps of this DƲNG and vanities they have scraped together, and are like the daughters of the horse∣leech,l Crying, GIVE, GIVE,

never satisfied, nor say, It is enough; He would almost think, they walked in their steps of whom our Saviour speaks,m They say, and do not: when they are teaching others, we have this very soberly from them; We would think him unwise, who hath brought much sweet wa∣ter into his cistern, and largely gives it out to others, but himself drinks that which is bitter and unwholsome: what profiteth it a steward to know the nature of meats, and not to taste them; or to be able to dispute of the nature and use of fire, and yet to die for cold? I shall leave the application to themselves; and the rather, because they doe not think to be sav'd by their book.

3. A base complyance for the wa∣ges of unrighteousness, with the corrupt interest and lusts of men. As puppets are moved wholy at his direction and bent that extends or slacks the strings where∣on they dance; and the blind-bayard rusheth into the battel, but which way he goeth he sees not, he cares not, save only his rider spurs him: such a disco∣very there hath been of late, that what∣soever some persons have commanded

(though against Reason, Religion, Law, Conscience, yea, their own former Vowes and Oaths) the same hath been immediately put in execution.n If a Ruler hearken to lies, all his servants are wicked. A wicked Ruler will have none about him, but such as shall serve his turn and purposes. As a man will not be at the cost of keeping beasts unless he think to have profit by it. When Elisha had promised a childe to the Shunamite, it was very much that she should say unto him (especially knowing him, and confessing him to be a man of God,o Doe not lie unto thine handmaid; a very harsh expressi∣on: But what might be the reason? He had talked to her before of the Court, and of his greatness there, ask∣ing her, what he shouldp speak for her to the King, or to the Captain of the Host: upon this, the good woman pre∣sently suspected that he spake as a Cour∣tier to her; and howsoever she took him for a Prophet, yet perceiving he had such an interest with the King, and his Courtiers, and his Soldiers (all Apostates) she much fear'd he had

learnt some of their principles, i. e. to complement, dissemble, flatter, lye: &c. O thou Seer, go, flee thee a∣way to the Land of Judah, and there eat bread, and prophesie there: as if he should say, if thou meanest to be safe, and not to starve, leave this place; for if thou meddle with the Apostacie, Hy∣pocrisie and baseness of the Court, thou wilt have neither peace nor livelihood: and doubtless the thing is true: there is no bread, no STATE-DISHES in Apostate-Courts, for a∣ny Seer that shall keep a good consci∣ence, and deal faithfully in the Lords Message: for should they declare the whole Counsel of God, and come home, (as John did to Herod) and tel them particularly what is not law∣ful, they would soon dismiss them, and tell them, it is the KINGS CHAP∣PEL; yea, and well if they can escape with their liberties and lives.

There are two things enough to discourage every honest man from being a Servant to a wicked Ruler.

1. The suspition and jealousie which all good people will have of him, if he

turn Courtier, as not to be the man he was before, viz. for truth, integrity and plain dealing: but as a Candle turned the wrong way, and held down∣ward, it goes out; so out goes the light of simplicity, and singleness of heart, and up riseth the snuff and stink of flattering lips, and a double-tongue.

2. How basely their great Ma∣sters will cast them off: As a man that rides in post, takes often fresh horses, and looks no more after the Beast he used before: Thus do Tyrants, those that will not hold out and keep pace with them in all their sinful ways, a∣way they are turned, and up they get upon the back of a fresh horse.

Fourthly, The horrible and unheard∣of wickedness, never the like seen or known before, among a professing people: not by fits, and now and then com∣mitted; but constantly, like a gutter which always runs with foul water. As low Meadows and Marshes, when they come to be overflown, and the waters to stand in them, breed no∣thing but Toads and Frogs that con∣tinually

creep and annoy them: or as Knats and Vermine in a dead karcase, by the clear sun-shine of one day, are produced and multiplied in multi∣tudes. I would gladly know what the last Apostacie hath begotten and brought forth since it ascended out of the bottomless pit, unless croaking Frogs and other Vermin, filling every corner of the Land. It is not long since Priests and Lawyers had their waters so dried up, as they were almost dead, and could hardly croak for drought: but now they encrease again, and grow fat, having power given them to devour e∣very green thing.

Hazael would not believe that he should ever commit the villany which the prophet told him. Though some professors were suspected (of many) to be rotten at the kore, long before their ROTTENNESS brake forth (like Gehazi's Leprosie) on their Fore-heads; yet I think no man thought they would have been half so bad as they are: for if you mark it, their designe is closely and by degrees to suppress every good thing that stands

in the way of their interest, and so to have their will and lust alone exalted. Moles cannot see, but it's the better for their working under ground. That some mens eyes are blinded, their hearts hardned, and consciences sear∣ed, it is much to the advantage of their designe: for now like blind Moles, their work will go on the faster; wheras had they eyes to see, hearts and consciences that would be smiting and checking them for their deceit, fals∣hood, hypocrisie, &c. Oh this would be a great trouble, and they could not work so fast under ground.

Fifthly, The Instruments imployed by them to defend what they have done, and how. 1.p The prophets are asha∣med every one of his own vision; they hold down the head, and dare not speak any more, things being so intolerably out of order. Thus we see fulfill'd in our days, that marvelous work and wonder, of which the prophet speaketh,q The wisdome of their wise men shall pe∣rish: and the understanding of their prudent shall be hid. Neither is it strange they are all silent; for what can the

new Doctors, or Tryers, or any of the money-Prophets bring forth to justifie some States-mens doings, but Gardners argument against relying on the merits of Christ? Allow that (said he) and ye open a Gap to the taking away of the priests profits. It is sure enough, if Christ in his Kingdom, Laws, Worship, &c. should reign: open that gate to the King of Glory, down goes the wantonness, pride, riot, and gallantry of our new Princes and Prelates, and their Dependants. 2. For those fools whichr which will be medling ands prating, what do they butt make lies their refuge? Oh the won∣derful victories, and prosperous suc∣cesses which they have had in the West-Indies, and other parts against the Spa∣niard, and what huge credit and glory the English Nation hath gain'd of late among Turks, and Jews, and Hea∣thens, and where not! When I hear such gross untruths, and consider for what end they are devised; that Beast comes into my mind (called Bonosus) not being able to defend himself with his hornes, poysoneth the Dogs with

his dung: seeing they can do nothing by their power, but the Lord breaks their horns every where, they hope to help themselves with THEIR EX∣CREMENTS, (men that shall write for the Turk or Devil, if he will hire him) and therewith to poy∣son the ears and understanding of the people.

But some may say, they are not be∣lieved, their news is taken for lies in all places. Though this be true, yet their wickedness is not the less: viz. when God is visibly against them, and curseth their blessings, for them THEN to boast of victory, prosperity, good success, &c. who unless Atheists would do so?

3. Another way whereby their new Babel is under-propt, it is by raising Calumniations and Slanders against the Lords people. What strange and monstrous people are the Fifth Mo∣narchy-men and Common-wealths-men reported to be? And doubtlessu the simple who believe every word, think it is all true which Apostates say of them. When the name of Hugonite

came first up in France, much enqui∣ry there was what those people were: The priests (ever the forewardest in such a work) gave out, they were MONSTERS, headed like Li∣ons, footed like Bears, &c. and would eat Children; and a great deal more to this purpose: whereupon the ignorant people, believing the things to be true, (because their Priests said so) cried out, Oh kill them, kill them, kill them. Just thus do the Backsliders deal with their enemies, I mean such as hold forth a publick Testimony against them: if you ask them what are these Fifth Monarchy-men, and Common-wealths-men, that are so talk'd of; they will tell you, they are Monsters, monstrous Monsters, men that will have no Go∣vernment, no Magistracy, no Ministe∣ry: men that will have all things com∣mon, allowing no propriety; and who∣so are not of their principles and opi∣nion, they will either eat them, or make them vassals to them. Now what say the poor ignorant people, hearing this, and not questioning the truth of it, (for how should they, seeing Priests,

Lawyers and Soldiers, tel them so?x Away with them, away with them, cruci∣fie them, we have no King but Caesar.

Take notice, Reader, this is an old stratagem of the Devil, and a lesson which he hath taught his children in all ages, that is, to be like a cunning thief, who in the croud, cryes, Stop the thief, stop the thief; not caring who is taken, so himself may escape, that hath done the robbery. When Balak would have Balaam come to him, to curse the Lord's people, he conceals the truth of Israels case and carriage, makes no men∣tion how the Lord had of olda pro∣mised them the land of Canaan, nor how the Canaanites wickedness was grown so great, thatb the land should spue them out: neither speaketh he of their sore oppression & bondage in Egypt, & miraculous deliverance from thence; nor how Israel being come out, had not harmed either Edom or Moab, butc passed by them in peace, and war∣red only with the cursed Canaanites, devoted to destruction: all these things Moab knew, as well asd E∣dom; but here he is silent: and what

he doth report is most false:e Behold, there is a people come out from Egypt; behold, they cover the face of the Earth, and they abide over against me: As if he should say, there is an uncivil and bar∣barous people come up from Egypt, who they are, I know not, but they plunder and destroy the Countryes where they come, and they are now waiting an opportunity to invade us, and turn us out of our lawful possessi∣ons. Are not our enemies and Mo∣ab here alike? Doe they not altoge∣ther conceal the case and carriage of Christs faithful witnesses? where doe they fairly and honestly report their principles and judgment? Butf lay to their charge, things they never knew. I have in part shewed, what they hold, and what they desire to have: This I shall add, asg Righteousness exalteth a Nation, (not craft, policy, power, or making an other house) so they would have all oppressi∣ons and grievances taken away, no man to be committed or detayn'd in prison at the will and pleasure of any man: they would not have the blood

and treasure of the Nation spilt and spent, to serve any mans lust; they would have the theevish Lawyers sup∣prest; they would have those righteous things done which the Army promi∣sed. And if Charls Stewart justly suf∣fered, (and his family too) for exer∣cising an arbitrary and unlimited pow∣er, they know no reason, why any man, if he govern worse then the King did, should be suffered.

4. Another help is a Mercenary Army. But of these men I need not say much; for the Nation knows them too well. A hedge-hog seems to be a poor silly creature; yet being full of bristles and prickles, a man may be shrewdly hurt by it. I cannot for the present think of a comparison fitter or truer: It's become a HEDG-HOG indeed; a poor silly thing, it hath no beauty, comliness, credit, honor, &c. only bristles and prickles to wound the interest of Christ and his people.

5. But who, think'st thou (Reader) brings up the Rear? Even Wizards and South-sayers: another of Satans tricks to deceive poor people. There is to

be in our days, a certain Conqueror (an Emperour he must be, saith another pa∣rasite) descended from the Princely race of North-Wales, who shall destroy the Pope and the Turk, and most part of the world; bear the Imperial rule at Sea, re∣form the Church, settle peace, and no∣thing shall stand in his way: and that this is true, many Magicians, Sorce∣rers, and British Bards are reckoned up, who above 1000. years agoe spake of it; and several Honorable Titles he is to have (saith a later Wizard) about July next. It grieves my Soul to see our profession, Religion, and the Ho∣ly Name of God thus abus'd and pro∣phan'd by the vilest instruments the Devil hath. But the Scripture must be fulfill'd.h And for this cause God shall send them strong delusions, that they should beleeve a lie, that they all might be damned, who beleeve not the truth, but have pleasure in unrighteous∣ness.i As he loved cursing, so let it come upon him; as he delighted not in the blessing, so let it be far from him. It was a righteous thing with God, to give up Ahab to his false Prophets, and

by their lies to destroy him, having re∣fused to hearken to the Lords Servants: so when men wil not follow the Coun∣sel of God, but cast his Word and Law behind their back, what more just then to leave them to Wizards and Star-ga∣zers, to be blinded & harnded by them, and prepared for slaughter? I have read somewhere of one Athol a Scots man, being told by a Sorceress, that he should be crowned in a great con∣course of people; believing the witch, & to make way for the crown, he kil'd James 1. Now there was some truth in what the Witch had told him; for being brought upon a Scaffold for this treason and Murder, a crown of red hot Iron was set upon his head, and so he miserably perished, many thousands looking on. So may they be crown'd that seek it in such a way.

Much more might be said concern∣ing the Lords answering the cries and sighing of his people in the discovery of these men, viz. their devouring skin, bones and all, by NEW TRICKS; so the Thief hath the true mans purse, he cares not how

he gets it.k As a roaring Li∣on, and a ranging Bear, so is a wicked Ruler over the poor people: that is, the right which he pleadeth, is no∣thing but might; the mercy he shews is onely where he cannot shew more cruelty; and whatsoever he takes a∣way most unjustly from poor people, he saith, It is his right, and he must and will have it. Again, the Lawyers ne∣ver tormented poor men more then now: the old Superstitious Priests, how are they thumming over the English Mass again! so in many parts of the Land, their Malignant Justices per∣secuting honest men under the name of conventicles, putting in execution the bloody Laws of the Beast enacted for the suppression of the truth: o∣ther things are too FOUL to be na∣med. Herod feared John for his pie∣ty and strict walking: so did Saul fear David. But no man needs to fear this Generation of men for holiness, ju∣stice, righteousness. Indeed for the contrary, there is cause enough; but howsoever, in this Gods people may take comfort, for thus it is promised:

kThou shalt go even to Babylon, THERE shalt thou be delivered, THERE the Lord shall redeem thee from the hand of thine enemies. I hope we shall never be brought neerer Ba∣bylon then we are.

Secondly, They have prayed, that the Lord would not bless or prosper the designs of the froward and crafty, who to set up their own interest, have betrayed the cause of Christ; but thatk He would make them as a rolling thing, as chaff before the wind. How the Lord hath answered them, will ap∣pear first by some Queries.

1. Had Charls Stewart sent an Army to Hispaniola, and ten of the Spaniards had kill'd an hundred of them, a hundred a thousand: Whether people would not have said, God's curse was upon that action?

2. Had Charls Stewart (to satis∣fie his pride and lust) put the Nation to some millions of expence, to keep a great Fleet about the Straits, and af∣ter

some yeers, a part had return'd, bringing nothing back but shame and dishonor to the nation: Whether people would not have said, This action likewise wasl given to the curse?

3. If Charls Stewart, for the busi∣ness at the Isle of Ree, and violating some Priviledges of Parliament, &c. was fairly dealt with: VVhether o∣ther men (after him) should they doe worse, might not be call'd to such an account?

4. If that Parliament, and High Court of Justice which arraigned Charls Stewart, deserved much love and prayse of the nation for it: What de∣serve they, and are worthy to have, that shall betray their publick Trust, by giving up to one man, the Power, Laws, Rights and Priviledges of Peo∣ple and Parliament?

5. If Charls Stewart in three or four yeers had unnecessarily wasted more then 4. Millions of the Treasure

of the nation, and in that time had de∣stroyed more then forty thousand mens lives, and only for his own pleasure; and afterward should have gotten a pack of his own creatures together, who in Parliament (as he would call it) should justifie and confirm what he had done: The question is, Whe∣ther in this case there had been any way or means left to the people, where∣by they might lawfully and justly have call'd Charls Stewart and his Juncto to an account for the same?

A poor man that oppresseth the poor, is like a sweeping rain, which leaveth no food. Morsus macri pediculi pessimus, the biting of a LEAN LOƲSE is worst of all, sayth Lyra on the place. I have read of a great man being bit∣ten of a weasel, and understanding there was no hope of cure, nothing griev'd him more at the hour of his death, then to think it was a weasels biting; had it been (said he) a LYONS BITING, it would not have troubled me half so much.

2. What is it that crafty men by their power and policy have lately effected? (I say) since Gods people have prayed aginst them, what have they brought forth save wind and vanity?m Behold, he travelleth with painful iniquity, and hath conceiv∣ed mischief, and brought forth a lie. As a woman after sore and hard travel is delivered of a dead childe; so hath been the fruit of their painful travel. Their affairs and transactions almost in all places and in all things, have been like a sword put into the scabberd the wrong way; the more force, power, craft, the worse: And no marvel, see∣ing they are going the wrong way, viz. against Christ, and the cries of his peo∣ple. VVhat is become of that THING, which was like Queen Mary's goodly Boy? Did not the Priests in their Pulpits describe it, and pray for it? VVhat is become of the Boyes nurse? A nurse many times is more fond of the child she sucks, then the mother that bare it.

3. It appears the Lord heard their

groanings, by sendingn an evil spi∣rit among the Plotters of iniquity to di∣vide them, and that they should seeko to destroy one another. VVhen Amnon had his desire upon his sister,p he hated her the more: So Hypo∣crites commonly most abhor such men as doe prostrate themselves to their sin∣ful designs, when they have served their lusts upon them.

4. It shewed Saul was in great ex∣tremity, having destroyed the witches, that he should yet goe to one of them, and make use of their devilish art. Oh! how desperately straitned are those men, and know not what to doe, ha∣ving fought against Malignants and Cavaleers, against Epispopal men and Presbyterians, shall afterward run to them, court them, and crouch to them, as seeing no way else to be help'dq Did ye not hate me, and expel me out of my fathers house? and why are ye come unto me, now when ye are in di∣stress?

Thirdly, Prayer hath been made

without ceasing, that Gods elect every where might forsake all unsanctified places and stand∣ings; and that their feet might be turned into the pleasant paths of truth and righteousness; and in this likewise they have seen the travel of their souls.

For, 1. Very many of the most conscientious people every where, have given up their com∣missions, places, offices, Salaries, &c.r Chusing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, then to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a sea∣son. If a man have a thing in his mouth, though he like it well for the sweetness of it, yet he will not keep it there, but spit it out when he knows it is naught and hurt∣ful: so will good men do (spe∣cially if their hearts be very soft and tender) forsake all places, offices, imployment, mainte∣nance, &c. which they see they

cannot hold without scandal and offence, though much worldly sweetness doth come in thereby. And this is indeed that great les∣son ofs Self-denial, andt Mortification, which Christ teach∣eth us.

2. There are some, who wan∣ting faith to trust God for a live∣lihood, lie under sad affliction and trouble of spirit about their places and imployments.u When my Master goeth into the house of Rimmon to worship there, and he leaneth on my hand, and I bow my self in the house of Rimmon; the Lord pardon thy servant in this thing: as if he should say, I do not like my place, that I should be so nigh the King when he is in the Temple at his idolatrous wor∣ship; I question the lawfulness of my presence there: but if I do it not, I must lose my place, and then I shall not live in that credit,

plenty, state, pomp, which now I do. It seems, Naaman knew not the Scriptures, howx a little,y a handful,a a dry morsel,b a dinner of herbs, well gotten, and with quietness, and peace of con∣science, and the fear of God, is better then great revenues with∣out right, and with the trouble of a tormented conscience. But Naaman knew not this; if he had, probably he would not (as I doubt too many do)c Trans∣gress'd for a piece of bread.

3. For many which keep their places and employment, though they seem satisfied as to their standing, yet the query is, Are they satisfied as to their Masters DOINGS?d What meaneth then the bleating of the Sheep in mine ears? With whom can you converse, (if they have not lost all former principles of honesty and liberty) but you shall hear

them bitterly exclaim against some persons, for their falshood, Covenant-breaking, seeking themselves, and opposing the work of God; yea, now and then a discontented houshold-servant will be twitting his Master pub∣lickly at his nose, for casting off the interest of Christ and his people, and complying with the Malignant party. What said Nabals servants of him to their Mistress?e He is such a son of Belial, that a man can∣not speak to him: (Belial signifies one without yoak, or lawless) as if they should say, There is not a man alive worse then our Ma∣ster: he cares not what he says, nor what he does, nor who he wrongs; his will is a Law; and ordinarily, they who have done him most good, (as David for ex∣ample) he is most spightful and malicious against; and if any

man do but speak to him of his covetousness, cruelty, unthank∣fulness, or seem to cross him in his pride and wilfulness, he will stamp, and stare, and curse like a mad-man, or devil, and do him what mischief he can: Therefore certainly evil is determined against our Master, and against all his hou∣shold. Reader, take notice when thou hearest some SERVANTS to call their Master a son of Belial, that is, one that will be under no yoke, no Law or Government; one that is an enemy to good people, and cares for none but such as wil be servants to his lusts and will; this is a great return of prayer: for howsoever some servants have not the grace nor honesty to leave such a Nabal; nevertheless, speak∣ing so openly against his wick∣edness, as they condemn their own sinful standing: so they justi∣fie all other servants which have

cast off such a SON OF BE∣LIAL.

Lastly, There is another sort, who like their places as ill as their Masters, and have not a good word for either; onely the old Serpent hath taught them a trick to cozen their own souls, which is, to keep their places, in hope to serve their Country the better, if a turn or change should come. Mock on: we know well enough, did not these men love themselves a great deal better then they do their Country, they would not sup∣port oppression (as they do) for their base pay & hire. But an ill-favoured face needs painting.

Fourthly, the Lord hath been ear∣nestly cal'd upon, that howsoever the Witnesses should be slain,f yet not suffered to be burnt, but that a remnant of the womans seed might be preserved to keep up the memory of the work and cause of Christ.

Now truly, I think the Father of Mercies hath not in any one thing more clearly answered the Soul-Groanings of his people then in this.

For, 1. Consider how grievously Gods people have been tried and tempted these three or four years, not onely by great poverty and outward wants, but by the entise∣ments & baits of worldly advan∣tages; as riches, honor, promotion, pleasure,h all these things will I give thee, IF THOU WILT, &c. A man that should stand before the mouth of a Cannon going off, or walk upon the ridge or pinacle of a Tower, or sail among most dan∣gerous rocks and sands; it would be thought very strange, if he should escape all danger. Some of Gods people lately have had a more wonderful deliverance, if the snares be minded which the Lord hath broken for them:i O

let them confess to Jehovah his mercy and his marvelous works.

2. Howsoever the love of many is grown cold, and they are turn'd with Demas, and with the Dog, to the world, and their vomit again; yet hath the Lord preserv'd a litte flock, a few names which have not defiled their garments by parta∣king with the last Apostacy, but (through grace)l have kept them∣selves unspotted from the world. When Gideons Army of 32000 came to be 300. then indeed it was excellent and glorious, and meet for the Lord to work Israels deliverance by it. Though the fol∣lowers of Christ are very few in number, to the worshippers of the Beast; yet this I may say, as the prophet saith of the Figs, they aren very good: the Lord having by their many temptations & trials, purified them unto himself a pe∣culiar people, zealous of good works.

CHAP. VIII.

FIftly, It is A Time of Finding, when there is no staggering at the Promise: But the things asked, are by Faith ob∣tained. So certain, as if they were al∣ready in our own hands. Thuso Hannah was sure of the Child as if he had been in her armes. Sop Moses at the Red Sea saw Pharoah and his hoste drown'd, before ever they went into the water. In dividing the Land of Canaan, not onely did Joshua and the people by lot, lay out the Inheritance of every Tribe, in the Countreys which they had conquer∣ed: But likewise all other parts of the Land, which at present they pos∣sessed not. And this they did, belie∣ving what was not yet in their hands, it should be theirs so sure, as the parts and places already taken. No lesse confident and certain are

Saints now, i. e. as some of the Cana∣anites are cast out: Moncks, Fryers, Arch-Bishops, Bishops. Soq the Land, ere long shall spue out the rest ofr them: And it shall be given to the Saints of the most high. Though the Is∣raelites after they came out of Egypt, had a stop for forty years in the wil∣derness; yet God gave them the peace∣able possession of Canaan according to his promise. So Jerusalem and the Temple were built. Howsoever tho∣rough the malice of the Enemy, there was some stop, put to the worke a∣while. True it is, the worke of God, THE GOOD OLD CAƲSE, hath met with A TROƲBLER, an ACHAN, for through the fal∣shood and hypocrisie of some men, it hath been killed and layen in the street, like the dead bodies of the Wit∣nesses: howsoever not suffered to be put in graves. But what of all this? so mer∣cifully hath the Lord answered the Cries and Tears of this people, as by faith they see it risen, and like a Con∣querour standing on its feet, to the Terror, Shame and Ruin of the Ad∣versaries.

Quest. But wherefore hath the Lord suffered his work to be stopped, and to lie (as it were) under a death?

Ans. Howsoever neither men nor Devils could have stopped it, had he pleased (not to have had it so) Yet he would have it stopp'd a while for these Reasons.

1. To dismisse from the worke some Regiments of prophane Esau's, and worldly Demasses; who follow∣ed it not for love but loaves. Such Hypocrites and rotten hearts, the Lord could not endure to see in his work, and therefore brought his Army out of the Field, to disband them, and tos lead them forth with the workers of iniquity. A good Riddance. A Dogg that followeth two men, is not known to which of them he belong∣eth till the way part: Then indeed you shall see: Howsoever we knew not plain and honest hearts, from dis∣semblers, so long as the Interest of Christ, and worldly profit kept toge∣ther. Yet the Lord by this STOP hath made a marvellous discovery of both. A good separation.

2. That the Scriptures might 〈◊〉〈◊〉

fulfilled: For by this STOP came in the perillous Times, of which Paul gave warningt in Timothy, mean∣ing the second Apostacy. How the Cha∣racters set down there by the Apostle, paralell with the Backsliders of this age I have largely elsewhere shewed. In some Fenny Countries, where peo∣ple are troubled with GNATS; they use to hang dung in the midst of a room, as a bait for the Gnats to fly to, and so catch them, as a snare pro∣vided for that purpose. Why would the Lord have a STOP to the work, and by that STOP bring up the A∣postacy? It is plain enough, that it might be a Pit and a Snare (dung in∣deed) to catch all the GNATS of the three Nations: For I verily be∣lieve there is not a worldly minded Professor (whether Church-member, or Church-Officer, or otherwise) but he is fallen into this Trap.u The light of the wicked shall be put out, and the sparke of his fire shall not shine. For be is cast into a net by his own feet, and his own counsel shall cast him down. The gin shall take him by the heel, and the rob∣•••••• shall prevail against him. The snare

is laid for him in the ground, and a trap for him in the way.x Great and mar∣vellous are thy works Lord God Almigh∣ty.

3. As the Lord made a Proof or Tryall of Abrahams faith, love and o∣bedience, by his willingnesse to offer his sonne Isaac: So this STOP hath been, viz.y that they which are ap∣proved may be made manifest. If a Maid, that she might be such a mans Wise, should refuse a great Estate, and live very poorly with him, would not this argue she married him for Love, and nothing else. There are many since this Apostasie came up, for the love and affection which they bear to the GOOD OLD CAƲSE, have refused great places high promotion and honour, and sufferd Banishment, Imprisonment, cruel mockings, and spoyling of their goods: And what doth this signifie?a Now I know (said the Angell to Abraham) that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy sonne, thine onely son from me. Surely a man sheweth great af∣fection and faithfulnesse unto Jesus Christ, when riches, preferments and

great mens favours are rejected, and his poor, despised, betrayed, and cru∣cified Cause is boldly owned of him.

4. Thatb the Lord may make a short work upon the earth, when his work shall be revived again. As a man intending to shew his skill by leaping farre, goes backward first a little: So the Lord intending more than an ordinary speed & quick dis∣patch of the seven last plagues, seemeth first to go backwards.c Behold the third woe cometh quickly. Thus it was with Israel in Egypt. After Moses and Aaron had been with Pharoah they hadd more work laid upon them, and their bondage greater than before. But when the Lord revived that work, How fast went it forward then? In less than thirty days all the ten plagues were poured out upon Egypt. So af∣ter the forty years, when the Lords work came on again, the Land of Ca∣naan is presently conquered,e & one and thirty Kings put to death. How soon was the Lords House built when the work was revived, in four years at most: And so I take it here, the Lord means by this Stop, HAST HAST afterward.

5. To strike the greater dread and horrour upon wicked menf at the rising of the work: Herod think∣ing Christ to be John Baptist, he thought likewise John being risen, he came with more strength and power than he had before; and this tormen∣ted him: That the Cause and Inter∣est of Christ, thought to be dead and buried, should be raised again: No marvel the sinners in Zion will be afraid, and fearfulness surprize the hypocrites; they know it comes forth in Power, Glory and Majesty to take vengeance on them for their falshood and un∣righteousnesse.

6. There is a STOP that ungod∣ly men in this Time may fill up the measure of their sinnes, & so be fatted for the slaughter.g Thine end is come, and the measure of thy Covetous∣ness; that is, when Babilons Covetous∣nesse is full and ripe, then come the vials of wrath to be poured out upon her. Among the Egyptians it was a custome, when any man was condem∣ned for some notorious crime, to feast him and fat him, that he might un∣dergo the greater Torment. I think

no man will deny, but some men of late are fatted to purpose:h Their heart is as fat as grease. But it was not thus before the STOP: For their Coveteousness, Pride, Lightnesse, Luxu∣ry, was nothing in measure and height to what it is now. A sad stop: wofull places, offices, promotion, mainte∣nance, &c. that prepares men like Sheep for the day of slaughter!

7. For the praise of his great power: Christ was able to have kept Lazarus from death and the grave; but he would not: and why?i That the son of man might be gloried: And in∣deed (I think) there was no miracle which our Saviour wrought more to his glory than this. Not onely is La∣zarus dead and buried, but supposed to stink, having been three days buri∣ed. And for all this to raise him up, what a wonderfull work is this? Though it be true (as was said) the Lord could have prevented all STOPS; yet he would not: But he will have his Cause slain and buried, and in the opinion of the Enemy, to rot and stink: (no fear of rising a∣gain) And then will hek awake

as one out of sleep, break the heavens and come down, shake the mountains and raise up his friend Lazarus, to the glory of his power, the joy of his people, and the confusion of his Ene∣mies. Amen, Amen.

Quest. But what reasons have you to believe that the good old Cause will be revived again.

Answer 1. Because the honour of God is much concerned in it since the STOP. What say the Scoffersl This man began to build, but was not a∣ble to finish it: As if some, by their craft and policy had over-reached Jesus Christ. As long as Pompey stood and flourished, Cato stoutly maintain∣ed a Providence: But when he fled in∣to Egypt, and was slaine of a base fel∣low, and lay upon the shoare with∣out any honour of Burial; when Cato also was beset with Caesars army. He fell from his former doctrine, tur∣ning his tale, as if there were no pro∣vidence at all: but every thing went by hap. It is too probable by some late Turnings, many are turned A∣theists. And therefore questionlesse, God will revive his work again: For

otherwise how can the great re∣proach and dishonour be taken off from his Providence and Govern∣ment.

So 2. Is Religion & the true profession of the Gospell; which never will have the Credite, Glory, Beauty, it had formerly, if the interest of Christ and his People be not revived. No∣thing better heals the sting of Vipers, than to apply their own flesh to the disease: The dust of a Toad put to its venomous biting takes away the poison. It is much upon my heart, by some such APPLICATION the Lord will heal those fearfull wounds and bitings, which are upon the truth. Though men have not regarded the Credit and Honour of it, yet Christ doth and will recover it and revive it again; by destroying the fond glos∣ses, and covetuous practises of cor∣rupt men, and raising up faithfull ones to preach the everlasting Gos∣pell.

Eusebius writes of Peregrinus the Philosopher; having gotten a great estate, by feigning himself a Christian, that he might consume it the more

freely on his lusts, revolted to Gen∣tilisme. It is plain enough to see, why some men have left the Lords work and this people; It was that they might be at liberty to spend what they had gotten in excesse, pride, ri∣ot, lasciviousness. They well knew, should they have kept close to Christ and his interest, they could not have fulfilled the desires of the flesh, and walked after their own lusts. And therefore thought it better to turn Heathens again. For so doing they knew they should have elbow-room e∣nough, & might do whatsoever seemd good in their own eyes. But what of all this, let such know the Lord will make That Holy Profession of his Name, Gospel & Kingdome glorious and honour∣able again. Though they have made it vile and contemptible in the eyes of the world.m I will sanctifie my great Name, which was prophaned among the Gentiles: which ye have prophaned in the midst of them.

3. Such were the wonderfull act∣ings and appearances of God, for and with this Cause, as it is not possi∣ble it should come to nothing (vanish

away like smoak) which yet will be so, unlesse it be quickned and raised again.n If the Lord were pleased to kill us, he would not have shewed us all these things: Let no man think that he would so eminently have shewed his power, justice, and wrath against the late King for his Tyrany and Arbitrary Government; So a∣against the Bishops for their pride and humane inventions, but that he means to destroy the like wickednesse in others, if afterward they shall take it up.o When I begin I will also make an end. Though it be a judgment (and to be executed upon his own people) yet he will perfect the work. And will he not do so (and morep wil∣lingly) when it is to have mercy upon Zion.

4. In reviving this work he willq Restore Comfort to his Mournersr would not thou revive us again, that thy people may rejoyce in thee? That is, when thou shalt take that which letteth out of the way; and bring us again upon thy work: Our mourning will cease, and thy power, faithfulnes, goodnes, justice, will be soul-refreshing unto

us. I know some men can take plea∣sure in beholding beastly and filthy things: So is oppression, falshood and deceit, to a time-server & turn-coat a most pleasant sight: As Hanibal, when he saw a pit full of mans blood, O formosum spectaculum: and the Scots Queen seeing her Subjects lie dead and stripped on the earth, cryed out, The goodliest Tapestry that ever she be∣held. The cryes and groans of the poor under their oppressions and hea∣vy burthens, what sweet musick makes this in the ears of Self-seekers: Now their pay comes in, their salary, and their so much per annum. But the joy of good men riseth otherwises When the wicked beareth rule, they mourn:t and when wicked Rulers perish, they shout for joy. So that un∣till this work be revived, Saints may expect little joy as to outward and publick Affaires.

5. This Cause will surely be revi∣ved, because it is not mans but the Lords: For, 1. Are notu Christs Enemies to be made his foot-stool, andx he to sit upon the holy hill of Zion? 2. Is not all oppression to cease, and

yViolence to be heard no more in the Land: The first and second Apostasies both to be destroyed? 3. Must nota Truth spring out of the earth, and Righteousnesse look down from Heaven? Andb the Saints possess the Kingdom? But can these things be and not the work revived, that is impossible. When it is night and dark, whence do ye expect to have light again in this visible world: Is it not by the ri∣sing of the Sun? So these great things which we are waiting for concerning Jesus Christ and his Kingdome, the coming in and accomplishment of them will be, by the Lords reviving his work and Cause again.

Quest. But is there not something for the Lords people to do, in order to the re∣viving of the Work?

Ans. Yes surely. For, 1. Howsoe∣ver Achan was the TROƲBLER and had caused the STOP, yetc Israel had sinned also.d Your Iniqui∣ties (saith the Prophet) have turned away these things, and your sins have withholden good things from you. When the clouds are scattered which hide the Sun from us, then we behold his

shining face again: So the Lord,e he forgives the iniquity of his people,f Blots out their transgressions and sins as a thick cloud, and then he will be favou∣rable to his land, and bring back the Cap∣tivity of Jacob. So that it is the duty of every Saint (waiting for the great Promises of the Father) to be at the foot of God, exceedingly bewailing his Own, and his Brethrens great mis∣carriages: And as there is hope our Deliverance is nigh, so our hearts should be the more broken and in bitternesse, and our tears and sigh∣ings encrease; now we should rise at midnight and cry,g Spare thy people,h Lord take away all iniquity, & receive us graciously: so will we render the calves of our lips. We must not so look upon Achans & Troublers abroad & without, as not to see the Achans and Troublers at home, in our own hearts. Though some have beeni pricks in the eyes of the Lords work and the good old Cause, andk Scourges and Thornes in the sides of his people; yet must we confess the righteousnesse of Jehovah, and say,l he hath puni∣shed us less than our iniquities deserve.

In short, our sins are asm the Stone upon the grave which must be rolled a∣way by confession and heart sorrow, in order to the reviving of the work.

2. Though the Lord will revive his work,n yet for this, he will be sought unto by his people to do it for them. A man may be willing to do his Friend a good Turn, yet he expects he should ask it of him:o Ask and have.p Be silent O all flesh before the Lord, for he is RAISED up out of his holy habitation. Observe, it is not said he is risen, but he is raised. Well,q Who shall Rouze him up? Who hath raised the Lord out of his ho∣ly habitation? The Prophet will tell you.r For the sighing of the needy now will I arise saith the Lord. Thus the Church in the Wildernesse, to have the work up again, and to go for∣ward, is earnest in prayer; Return (O Lord) how long, and let it repent thee concerning thy Servants. O satisfie us early with thy mercy, that we may re∣joyce and be glad all our dayes. Make us glad according to the dayes wherein thou hast afflicted us, and the years wherein we have seen evill. Let thy work appear un∣to

thy Servants, and thy glory unto their Children. And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish thou the work of our hands: Yea, the work of our hands establish thou it.

3. That Councel of our Saviour is to be heeded,s Let your loynes be girded about, and your light shining: That when the Lord cometh and knocks, you may open unto him immediatly. If a man have a promise of some great of∣fice and preferment, should he not en∣deavour to fit himself for it? How to be prepared for the Lords work, when it shall come forth again; is shewed us in thet Characters of the Lambs followers: they have his Fathers name (not the Mark of the Beast) written in their foreheads. These are they which are not defiled with women, for they are Virgins: These are they which follow the Lamb wheresoever he goeth, these were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits unto God and the Lamb: And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God. What is the reason so many have fallen under the Lords work, made shipwrack of it and themselves

too? They took it up, before they were meet for it. If a Fool or Mad man be at the Helme, neeeds must that Vessel miscarry. If the Guide be blind, the Followers of him will miss their way:u Wo to thee O Land, when thy King is a Child, and thy Princes eat in the morning; that is, one who out of inferiour Condition is leapt into a Throne, and gives himselfe (with his New Lords) to lust and pleasures, and make their own Inter∣ests and Profits the chief thing that they look after, and prefer that be∣fore the Publick good. As we expect therefore not to be laid aside, and stand ashamed when the work shall be revived: Let us not sleep as do o∣thers, but be sober and watch, keep oyle in our vessel,x Hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering, andy not cast away our confidence which hath great recompence of reward. When a man is to begin a thing, and makes onely a rough draught, any in∣strument will serve the turn; but af∣terward when he comes to fine work, then he useth (and must have) bet∣ter tooles. Though I do attribute to

the work done as much as any man rightly can, yet this I humbly con∣ceive, it hath hitherto been but a rough draught (very low and mean) com∣paratively to what the work will be, when the Lord shall give it a Resur∣rection. And therefore as the work will be much finer, so he will use bet∣ter instruments, or if he use any of the former instruments, he will make them purer and better than ever: He will havea a Created people,b Sanctified ones:c Called, and chosen, and faithfull:d Cloathed in pure, and white linnen, and having their breasts girded with golden girdles.

Quest. But how and in what manner will the Lord revive his work: And when will that blessed Time of finding come?

Ans. There are many signes which go before a storme, and ••any sym∣ptomes which discover d••seases be∣fore men fall into them: So (I think) before the Lord will appear again for the old Interest of Christ and his peo∣ple against the enemies thereof; there will be some signes and Symptomes going immediately before. The hus∣bandman that hath the eye of expe∣rience

will give a fair guess of the whole day by the morning; I shall leave other men to their own conje∣ctures: For my part I do apprehend so farre already a dawning of the work, as I dare adventure (in the strength and power of my God) to give a sober guess of it.

Gods work in the womb of Provi∣dence is according to what the Pro∣phet speaks of Gods forming him in the womb of his mother; He begins withe his unformed substance, or Embrio, that is, the body in the womb before it hath perfect shape; then he speaks of being covered with skin and flesh: Lastly, how curiously he was made, namely with sinewes, veines, arteries, and variety of limbs: As an Embroiderer joyneth many parcels, and wier-work of various colours, very artificially and curiously toge∣ther, untill there comes forth some goodly portraiture, or other dainty workmanship; and all this is done in the lowest part of the earth; so he cal∣leth the womb, because of Gods se∣cret and unknown making of men there. In such a way is the work of

God in the womb of providence: Oh it is fearfully and marvelously made: It is at first (as it were) un∣wrought, afterwards it hath flesh and bone; but curiously embroidered, like a piece of needle work, before it comes visible forth: In this womb of Providence are the seaven last vials for∣med, and the Angels which shall pour them out. So the little Stone which shall smite the Image, and the weapons of war, which shall thrash Babylon, and all the mountains of the world. That this work should be in the womb of Providence (yea, and so curiously wrought, as ready to come forth) & yet not perceived it is no wonder.f As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with Child: so thou knowest not the works of God who makes allg God understandeth the way thereof, and he knoweth the place thereof.

Quest. But can you demonstrate by a∣ny fair Arguments, that the work is no Embrio, but curiously wrought, and coming forth out of the womb of Provi∣dence, at theh Man-child to rule the Nations with a rod of Iron?

Ans. As this is a great Question, so I shall modestly speak to it, from that light •• have received. Indeed I cannot decline my former opinion: But do think the work (as an unfor∣med substance) begun about June: And that it is now covered with skin and flesh; full wrought and coming forth. It seems so to me for these rea∣sons:

1. I do observe, that the Spirit of the Lord is so full and mighty with some of his hidden ones, as they cannot cease f••om crying to him day and night.i Thrust in the sickle and reap, for the time is come for thee to reap: for the harvest of the earth is ripe. Not now for a discovery of the Apostacy, for that is apparent enough: Nor so much now for Separation, as to have the judgement written, speedily execu∣ted. It is doubtless a truth, when the Lord shall spirit a people (though very few) and bring them forth, as his Jobs, Samuels and Daniels to stand before him, and withall gives themk a grain of that faith of which Christ speaks. Whatsoever they ask in that FAITH shall be given them.

A little time will shew, by whose LEADING and MOTION I write thus: Namely, That the Lords work is reviving, and will suddenly appear in the destroying of the last Apostacy, and this done by that Faith (which some poor wormes have received) to which all things are possible.

2. I think Providence is opening the womb, Because some men (like Jehu) drive too furiously to hold out long. Blood-suckers when they are ready to burst, draw strongest. Thus it was with Pharoah, Absolom, Haman, when they begun to pull hard they streight∣way perished: No otherwise than like Rats and Mise and other Ver∣min, whilst they are pulling hard at the bait, down falls the Trap, and so are taken: So Geese many times break their own neck, with biting and pul∣ling hard the root which they hold in their Bill. What the Bait is, and the Root which some men are pulling at, most do know: But what is the Trap? Verily Providence: And you shall see, when they come to their strongest Pulls, to pull with BOTH HANDS, down falls the Snare, and the Ver∣mins crusht to pieces.

3. Because the Controversie riseth high between the Lords Witnesses, & the Lords Enemies. When we see a woman big with Child, we conclude she hath not long to go. Can the controversie be higher? Is it not a∣bout the Title of the Crown, King∣dome, Government; yea, and who shall Reign and be King? Whether Jesus Christ in his Lawes or proud flesh in his Lusts? Methinks by the great∣nesse and swelling of the womb, there is hope of a speedy birth: It was so in the Case between Moses and the Magicians, Elias and the Priests of Ba∣al: So the Scots and the Prelates. When the difference and controver∣sie grew high on all sides; What im∣mediatly followed?

Breaking work;m Upon the wicked he rained snares, fire and brimstone, and an horrible Tempest: This was the portion of their Cup.

When we shall see the contest at that height, either men must move for their Lives, Lawes, and Liberties; or be absolute Slaves; Suffer their witnes∣ses to be put in graves, or stand up for their Rising; Then will the Lords

worke come forth in quickening and spiriting a dead people, andn

Zion shall deliver her self that dwelt with the daughter of Baby∣lon.

4.o The Lord hath made every thing beautifull in his season. That is, the worke of divine providence, is the more comely and excellent, in respect of the Season, in which it comes forth: Thus it is in natural things. The Spring, Summer, Autumne. VVinter, every thing in his season, oh how lovely and faire it is: So in all the works of God about his Children: VVhitherp it be the punishing of the wicked for their sakes: or their own deliverance. He will make the worke honourable and glorious in respect ofq That Season and Time he brings it forth. Hence I am perswaded the Good old Cause is reviving. Because methinks it is now, such a Season, as will put upon it the Beautie of holiness.

5. VVhen I considerr the wheele in the midst of a wheele,s and the wheeles full of eyes. And withall ob∣serve many late providences, this lik∣wise much confirmes me: You may

easily know which way a man means to shoot, by his holding of his musket or Bow: Against whom of late hath the Lord held the mouth of his Can∣on: The Head of the Arrow of his VVrath, and the point of his great and strong Sword. Truely he must be very ignorant in publick affaires that cannot point at them: And what may we ga∣ther hence? That he will discharge his whole Cannons among them: make his Arrows drunk in their Blood, and they shall not escape his drawn sword, and this suddenly too. In warr usually there are some light skirmishes before the main Bodies do Engage: So before a great rain and storme, little dropping: The Lord hath been skirmishing with them both by land and sea: and shamefully beaten them everywhere; and terrible drops have fallen upon them like haile-stones: So that now he is comming against them with the Bodie of his Armie: Andt

to persecute them with his Tempestu Now consider this ye that forget Godx VVhich have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray,

following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousnesse:y If I whet my glittering word, and mine hand take hold on judgement, I will ren∣der vengeance to mine enemies, and will reward them that hate me. I will make mine arrows drunk with bloud, and my sword shall de∣vour flesh, & that with the bloud of the slaine and of the Captaines, from the beginning of the revenges upon the enemie.

6. Judgement is at the birth a∣gainst a professing people, when the Counsel of the Lord in all his Ser∣vants is rejected: and they are heark∣ning to flatterers, lyers, Wizards, who will humour them in their lusts, and encourage them in every sinfull Acti∣on. This is plain in the Cause of Jo∣asha After the death of Jehoiada came the Princes of Judah, and made obeysance to the King: then the King hearkned unto them. These Princes were the old ma∣lignant Courtiers in the reigne of Je∣horam, Ahaziah & Athaliah. The thing that he hearkned to, was to destroy that good Reformation which himself

had made a little before: that is to set up again the Idolatry and Tyrany which he had throwne down, and to cast out the just and righteous things which he himselfe lately had esta∣blished. The evil of this is told him again and againe: But no admonition will take place. For he grows so wicked that he causeth the Prophet (who reprov'd him) to be stond: even his sonn who had set him on the Throne. But what followed? oh sad things (and that suddenly) first upon the Land that was made the seat of war, spoyld and plunderd; afterward a sore punishment upon himself, by the hand both of God and man.

The like befel Amaziah his sonb I know (saith the Prophet to him) God hath determined to destroy thee, because thou hast done this, and hast not hearkened to my Counsel. The which thing came to pass soon after. Again it is said of Eli's childrenc They harkned not to the voyce of their father, because the Lord would slay them. That is he gave them not grace to repent, but did more and more forsake them, & gave them in his justice over to a reprobate

mind, to their own ruin and destru∣ction: Which alsod came to pass. When Ahab hearkned to his false Pro∣phets, & not to Michaiah; Gods Judg∣ment soon reacht him. Was there e∣ver a Generation of men that did cast off the threatnings of God against their sinnes with more contempt and scorne than some do now? For un∣less he be an Ahitophel, a Machiavel, a Subtil Serpent, tush they care not for any mans Counsel a rush. But is not this some notable signe of the Times? Yes surely (e) When it is evening ye say it will be fair wether. For the skie is red And in the morning it willbe foul wea∣ther to day; For the skie is red and and lowring. Such is my confi∣dence in the Truth of the Scripture, as from the Premises I can sooner be∣leeve, that there is some great judg∣ment very nigh the dispisers of good Counsell, than conclude fair or foul weather from such signes in the face of the sky. That the work's upon revi∣ving: This also shews it: neer in my apprehension did Time look so like midnight as now. Night it hath been some years together. But no Midnight

till of late: If sleep hath not seiz'd on the Virgins (Wise as Foolish) yet truly a great slumbering doth; for there is not (methinkes) that activeness, that life and soule to the great Cause of God, as some times there was: Several wayes people may fall a sleep: And chil∣dren very often sing themselves a∣sleep And are there not some of the Lords sweet Babes, fallen now into some slumbering as to THE DAY WORKE, by their own pleasant Sing∣ing. I should be a great deale more affected and dissatisfied with this late slumbring of the Virgins, but that I consider the Scripture must be fulfil'df I looked (saith the Lord) and

there was none to helpg By whom shall Jacob arise, for he is smal: small indeed:

For if the wise Virgins fall asleep who then are left, Though this be so, yet herein am I comforted: The Midnight-time being upon us: It declares that the womb of providence is opening: and the Crie nighh Be∣hold the Bridegroom cometh, go ye out and meet him. Yea, and it is a mercie, seeing the Midnight Time is upon us, that there is a Ʋoice kept up to awa∣ken such as are asleep.

7. Reader, mark this: Such men as by engagement ought to joyn with the Interest of Christ & his people, if they neg∣lect their duty here, & joyn with the Lords Enemies against him and his Cause, there is certainly some great judgement nigh them. It was Midians dutyi to have met Israel with bread & with water in the way when they came forth out of Egypt. That is, they should have refreshed & assisted their Brethren in their travels towards Canaan; but in stead of do∣ing so, Midian hired a Wizard, a Witch to curse the Lords people: But what is his punishment for it? He shall not enter into the Congregation of the Lord for ever. Israel must never seek his peace nor prosperity. Many Reasons there were, why Achitophel should have stood faithfull to David and his Righteous Cause: But (like an un∣thankfull wretch) he went with Absa∣lom in that unnatural Rebellion: But how sped he?k When he saw his counsell was not followed, he went home and hanged himself. Again whose part should Judas have taken? (in point of Reason, Religion, and Consci∣ence) Doutless his Masters; but he

falls in with the Scribes and Pharisees to take away his Masters life. What his end was, and how he was rewar∣ded for it. (It is recorded)g He went and hanged himselfh And fal∣ling headlong burst asunder in the midst, and his bowels gushed out. Are there a∣ny such in our Time, who in respect of many Engagements, should assist and help the Lords people, stand up with them, for Righteousnesse and Truth: And do they (like Midian, Achitophel, Judas) side & take part with Wizards, Rebels, Pharisees, (and marked Slaves of the Beast. I say, are there such? If so, then I question not but Providence ere long will shew some notable work uppon them.l Come, and behold the works of the Lord, what desolations he hath made in the earth.

Lastly, And which is not the least that perswades me, the good old Cause is ready to rise: I do observe that the Lords people every where are ex∣pecting it. Now what means this (k) singing of the Birds, if the spring be not nigh. Is it possible that it should lye (with so much weight) upon the

Spirits of all the little remnant; that the Lord is coming sorth to take vengeance on his adversaries, and to comfort Zion: And nothing should be in it: I cannot think so, neither is there any reason for it. Indeed,l

The way of the wicked is darknesse they know not at what they stum∣ble.m But the way of the just is as a shining light, that shineth more and more to the perfect day.

Thus Reader thou seest the Reasons why I think, the WORK is at the Birth. I shall offer a little more to thee And no more (I hope,) then what is according to Truth: and with supplications the Lord hath led me.

From the Creation to the Flood (ac∣cording to the best account that I have seen) were 1657. yeeres. And so many yeeres we reckon past, since Jesus Christ was born. In this yeare (viz- 1657.) doth period the 42. Months and 1260. dayes in which the Beast was to reigne, and the Saints to suffer. Mr. Tilling hast (of Pretious memorie) beginning at the Head of the ac∣count; i. e. at the rise of the Beast, brings down the two Numbers to the yeare 1657. I have done something

by inquiring at the foot, to wit the last three years and an half of the Account, and here we do agree as to the Time of the End: That is, whereas the Woman must ben

in the wilderness 1260 dayes: ando 'Power was gi∣ven to the Beast to continue 42. Moneths.

Both these Numbers (sig∣nifying indeed all one time) do end in the aforesaid yeare, 1657. This humblie do I conceive:

I know what will be here objected. If this were so, we should see some

change as either to the rising of the witnesses, or fear among the enemies, or something done upon Babylon:

But things stand as they did before: The Dragon, Beast, Little Horne both Apostacies as Rampant as ever, yea rather of late grown greater, & are at the rising hand, than otherwise.

Ans. This being a hard knot. I trust the Lord will the more help me to unty it, & so to take this Stumbling block out of the way of his people.

1. I would say (as the Lord said to Jobp Hast thou entred into the trea∣sures of the snow? or hast thou seen the treasures of the haile? Hath the rain a

father? or who hath begotten the drops of dew? out of whose womb came the ice? and the hoarie frost of Heaven? who hath gendered it? Hath the Lord a Treasure for snow and hail, a Father to beget the rain and drops of dew: and a womb wherein the ice & hoarie frost are gendered? and afterwards brings them forth, as he thinks good to use and spend them? Then much more a Treasure, a Father, a Wombe for higher things, & greater workes, wherein his name, glory, kingdom & people are especially concernd.

Is not this laid up in store with me, and sealed up a∣mong my treasures.

Again though it may not be questioned Butq The Lord will do all his pleasure upon Baby∣lon: Nothing shall faile of his threat∣nings, against the Dragon, Beast, Lit∣tle Hornet Yet the ordering, managing and governing thereof, that only and wholly belongeth to him, both when to begin, and how to do it. Hence I humbly conceive, if we should see no∣thing done in the year, 1657. as to the rising of the Witnesses or ruine of the Bottomlesse, Beast, and last Apostacie: It will not therefore follow that the

1260. Yeares ended not in that year. No more reason: Then because the Childe is not Born, Ergo, not con∣ceived in the womb.

2. Christs words must be remem∣bredr The Kingdome of God cometh not with observation, that is, not in such manner at first, that it can be ta∣ken notice of by things done. Ob∣serve, it is not said, the kingdome shall have no Observation. But Cometh not. Shewing how at first little will be seen to demonstrate that such a king∣dome is come: But afterward it shall be visible, and plain enough to be ob∣serv'd. And to this purpose speakes the Prophet,s Lord though thy hand be lifted up, yet they see it not. But they shall see it. This was the great Stumbling block, which lay in the way of the Jewes, when Christ came in the flesh. Because he came not as they exspected before hand (as it is in the comming of worldly Princes) in great state and outward Pomp, they would not believe in him nor receive him for the true Mesias. And why may not the like be the Case of people now. Because they see not as they

expected WONDERS in 57. Some extraordinary power and presence of God with his people, and great o∣verturnings and breakings of Nations, hence conclude, it was not the Time of the End. But let such know the Scripture favours no such Conclusi∣on.

Question, But shall the forty two moneths (given to the beast) end, with∣out observation.

Answ. Howsoever immediately up∣on the period of the 1260. yeares there will not be I think actions of much Observation, either in respect of Zion or Babilon, yet the Time of the End, cometh not without Observation some other way.

For, 1. The serious Observation of the Prophesies and Visions of the holy Scriptures relating to the last dayes, will lead a heart (if it hath nothing in it but truth and upright∣nesse, and the glory of God) to the knowledge of the Times. 2. There is the Observation of the Spirit:u The unction from the holy one; and here we do observe how the Holy Ghost o∣pens our understanding, and not one∣ly

so, but those great things which he reveals to his Babes and Sucklings, he confirms them therein; whiles they are in tears and weeping before the Throne. 3. The Observation of Provi∣dence, which hath brought ••orth the Persons and Things which were (ac∣cording to the Prophesies of the Scripture) to finish and end the 1260. years.

But 3. Did not some men do, like one, who whiles he is striving to have a great gripe, comes off with no∣thing in his hand. They might see that 57. hath not altogether been without OBSERVATION: For howsoeverx

Gods judgements are a great deep,y and unsearch∣able.a Great and marvellous are his workes,b and his foot∣steps not known.

I say, howsoever his Counsel, Government, Admini∣strations, and the manner of procee∣ding is beyond all searching into: yet if matters soberly be considred by wisedomes Eye, Fifty seaven hath shew∣edc "some token for good, and thatd

the day of the Lords re∣deemed is come,e 'and the year

of recompences for the controversie of Zion:

For,

1. VVhat may be meant by that Government which was set up Decem∣ber 16. 1653. and laid aside again June 26. 1657. It stoodf

a Time and Times, and the dividing of Times, that is three years and an half, almost to a day, Oh the depth of Gods wayes!

Ashur shall fulfill his decree and counsel:g Howbeit he mea∣neth not so, neither doth his heart think so.

2. VVhat things have been done, and how mannaged, and what suc∣cess hath followed in 57. it is so well known (to many mens cost) as I need not mention it. But what may we gather hence: I mean from the Lords Acting and appearing already against some men? That the National affairs in their hands is like the Fig-tree un∣der the curseh Let no fruit grow on thee henceforth for ever.

3. VVhen Agag thoughti the bitterness of death was past, then came sudden destruction upon him. Fifty seaven is not yet endedk

Boast not thy self of to morrow, for thou

knowest not what a day may bring forth.

Though the man-child in June were butl

poured out as milk, and curdled like cheese, (to use the holy language)

yet who knows what in nine Moneths the womb of Provi∣dence may bring forth:m VVhilst the FOOL is thinking of building his Barnes greater, death ceaseth on him;n That he might go to his own place.

4. VVhen Caleb encouraged his brethren to fight the Canaanites: He told themo Their defence is departed from them: That is, the Lord would protect them no longer. But why is their shaddow & Covert now gone? doubtlesse he hath respect to the time of the end. As if he should say the 430 years (given to ••he Amorites) being expired, and so their iniquity full: the Lord will deliver them into our hands, if we are fitted for the work: From which place, this I would ga∣ther: That the reign of the Beast may expire in 1657. and the enemies of God THEN ripe for judgement: yet the instruments not being prepared for execution: In this respect little

or nothing for the present may be done.

Quest. When the 430. years were expired, the Israelites came out of Egyptp the same day. So from Baby••on assoon as the 70. years ended. Why then should not the Witnesses rise: and the little-horn, and beast be slain immediatly at the ending of the 1260 dayes:

Answ. 1. Howsoever it be so con∣cerning their comming out of Egypt and Babylon; yet there was sometime before they came to Canaan and Je∣rusalem: So in order to the rising of Witnesses. No sooner are the three years and a half ended, but the work beginsq The spirit of life from God enters into it. The wheeles of Provi∣dence are set running; But there must be some time to have it perfect∣ed, as it was in the case of the Isra∣elites.

But 2▪ Israels case and this here, are not alike: For as they were people, i. e. Men, women, children; So no∣thing could be done to their enlarge∣ment, but it must needs be obvious and visible. But this about the Wit∣nesses, &c, hath much in it which is spi∣ritual

and mysticall: And therefore a work (as to the rising and growing of it) not so plainly to be observed and discerned as was the other, espe∣cially at first.

Neither 3. doe I find the promises alike, for it seems to me, by promise they were to be in Egypt, but 430 years: And in Babylon 70. and no longer. But it is not said, the witnesses shall stand upon their feet assoon, as the three years and half are ended. Indeed the Text saith,r And after three dayes and an half, the spirit of life from God entred in∣to them; and they stood upon their feet: That is, such a time being expired, the Lord will revive his work and good old cause again. But how long after, it is not said: only this is in the pro∣mise: From that very time, it shall not lie dead as before; but the Lord will be forming it (for its birth) in the womb of providence.

4. The businesse of Egypt and Ba∣bylon was such, that untill the people came out, the first part of the promise was not performed. But here it is not so, for the work may be begun, & go forward, and much done (according

the Scripture) and yet not seen or ••••lieved, scarse by any. As water ••ns a great while under ground, be∣••••re it comes out at the Spring head: ••o after the 1260. years are expired, ••efore the work will openly appear, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 setting the Witnesses upon their feet, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 taking the little horns Dominion from ••im, it will be as water under grounds wrought in the lowest parts of the ••arth.

Quest. But how can the 1260 years ••e ended, seeing it is the opinion of many ••ood men, that the VVitnesses are not ••••ain, neither hath the little-horn yet ••een; nor the second Beast risen out of the earth: besides many other things not ••et fulfill'd, which must be before the 42. months do expire?

Answ. Because there are many men (and some whom I know and honour) of this judgement: I do in∣tend by the good hand of God assist∣ing me, to publish very shortly a par∣ticular Answer to this Objection. And to give my Reasons & grounds, why I think there is nothing foretold in Scripture, which should come to pass in the 1260 years, but hath had its due accomplishment.

Question, If the Work be so nigh r••¦viving? How, and in what manner wi•••• the Lord by Providence bring it forth?

Answer, I hope the God of truth b•• his word and good spirit will so gra¦ciously guide me here: That I shal•• not intrude into those things whic•• I have not seen. But give my judg••¦ment as one that hath obtained mer∣cy of the Lord to be faithfull. Tha•• I may be in this great point the better understood: howsoever I thinke whe•• the Lord shall bring this work on a∣gain in the Vials, it will bet as the lightning, which commeth out of the east and shineth even unto the west. Namely with great swiftness, and brightnesse the whole world over, Nevertheless at first it will break forth (as the daw∣ning of the day) but in one part or Country. And I think some what to this purpose.

1. Neere or about the visible revi∣ving of the workeu A voyce will be heard from heaven, as the voyce of many waters and as the voice of a great Thun∣der. Waters are from beneath, Thunder from above: So then by the Voyce of these Waters, I understand a terrible

Appearance and standing up of much ••eople (or Common-wealths men) for ••ivil Rights: Crying JƲSTICE ••ƲSTICE against oppressours and ••rong doers. Neither will they be fi∣••enced or quieted (no more then wa∣••ers) till they have recovered their ••reedom and Liberties.

2. Thunder (as I said) is from above. ••nd here may be meant Fift Monarchy ••en, speaking very high, for the ••ights of Jesus Christ, his kingdome ••rown and dignity: And howsoever ••t is but one Thunder, and the Waters many, yet it will not onely make a ••ouder sound, and be Farther heard, ••ut likewise be more dreadfull and ••errible wheresoever it comesx Put ••our selves in aray against Babilon round ••bout: all ye that bend the bow: shoot at her, spare no arrowes, down with her, down with her, in all her Abominations: In her Tythes and Triers as the rest of her whor∣domes and Fornications.

3. That the Waters are set before the Thunder. It may import, that the worke will begin (at least by most ownd) upon a Civil Account. As the lesser wedge makes way for the grea∣ter:

So in CLEAVING the kingdom•• of the Beast. The controversie will b•• first about lesser things, as the Powe•• Freedome, and Priviledges of th•• people, and so rise higher and highe•••• untill the OLD BLOCK Babylon b•• made Chips for the Fire.

4. There isy a Voice of Harper•• Harping with their Harpes. This may signifie how lively, chearfull & resol¦ved they are to ingage for the GOOD OLD CAƲSEz And it came t•• passe when the Minstrel played, the han•• of the Lord came upon him. Formerly there was a death upon them, a bas•• fear and Cowardliness; But now th•• spirit of life from God is entred into them, and they stand upon their feet. Now they look with Lion like faces, and quit themselves like men. Though Peter shrunke and drew backa at the speech of a poor wench, yet when he had received power from on high, He feard no coulers, he could thenb look with Boldnes any Tyrant in the face; So howsoever before, they had not life and courage, yet when the Harpers Harpe, such will be the hand of God, upon them that they will not

regard what their Enemies can doe either by fraud or forcec He that is feeble among them, at that day, shall be as David, and the house of David, shall be as God, as the Angel of the Lord be∣fore them.

5.d And great fear fel upon them that saw them. Though there be no∣thing yet done, but a more lively ow∣ning of the Lords cause than before, and declaring publickly for it, yet this strikes a terrible astonishment and trembling among the Adversa∣ries;e

As doubting whereunto this will grow.

And their amazement is the more to heare how the number daily increaseth in all parts, Sayingf

The Lord blesse the•• habitation of Justice and mountain of holiness;

We will haveg

the gates open, that the righteous Nation, which keep∣eth the truth may enter in.

Besides they see no meanes or way how to keep the peoples Liberties and rights any longer from them.h

The stout hearted are spoiled, and none of the men of might, have found their hands, that is,

they are as if they had no hands, they are not able to make the least resist∣ance or defence.

6. Whiles the adversaries are thus in confusion and fear, a happy union and accord will be made between the Waters and Thunder: So much I think is meant, by the

VVitnesses as∣cending up to heaven in a cloud.

It is but one cloud that hath them both. Hence about this time, I do exspect a great uniting of the Common-wealth men & fifth Monarchy men upon good & righteous Principles: Unanimously agreeing to cary on the Lords worki With one consent or Soulder,k E∣phraim shall not envy Judah and Judah shall not vex Ephraim. But the Lord willl joyne them one by another into one stick, & they shall become one in his hand. This blessed agreement of the People, instru∣mentally will be made, by some emi∣nent and choise Christians, men thatm Have understanding of the times: to know what Israel ought to do. And this I take to be then great voyce from Heaven, saying unto them come up higher.

7. Union being made and all in

Heaven, hereo the Lord of Hostes mustereth the host of the battel, andp the armies of heaven; here he cloathes the Vial Angelsq in pure and white linnen, having their breasts girded with a golden girdle. This is Zion, out of which the Lord will send the rod of his strength; & the Mount Zion wherer the hun∣dred forty and four thousand stand with the Lamb. Here he fits his people for the work, and appoints them their work: So that my opinion is, for a∣ny people to go forth with the mate∣rial Sword against Babylon, or the Kings of the earth, or to set up the visible Kingdome of Christ, before the Lord hath brought them to this Heaven, in∣to the Temple, to Zion, and Mount Zion, yea, and to some good accord among themselves: They will not be upon the Lords work as to the pouring out of any vial.

8. Howsoever the Lords Sanctified ones in heaven: are not smiting the I∣mage: yet its saids Their enemies behold them. As how? Terrible as an ar∣my with Banners: Lifting up an ensign to the Nations, and publishing warr against Babylon.t Ye shall not go out in

hast, nor go by flight: For the Lord will go before you, and the God of Israel will be your rereward. i. e. Seeing God hath taken away all their Feares, and gi∣ven them great faith, made them one in the work, and fitted them for it, and withall experiencing the powerfull presence of God among them, and how he hath left the enemy to feares, darknesse, division, destruction &c. The Dragon and the Beast shall behold what they do. They need not fear these men for secret plots and treason, they scorn it, they need no such shifts: What they do shall be in the sight of the Sun.u Stand now with thy inchantments, and with the multitude of thy sorceries, wherein thouhast laboured from thy youth: if so be thou shalt be able to profit, if so be thou mayest prevaile, So will these say to their Enemies, bring forth the false∣hood and lies ye trusted in. Now see if your hypocrisie and craft will help you any more. Now run to your Souldiers, Lawyers, Priests, &c. trie what they can do for you.

9. The Lord havingx called his mighty ones for his anger. Next he brings them forthy With the high

praises of God in their mouthes, and a two edged sword in their hands, to exe∣cute the judgement written.z And the same hour was there a great earth∣quake. Here I understand, begins the Ʋial work. And the earth-quake to be thea pouring out of the first Ʋial upon the earth: The same withb the reaping of the harvest of the earth and Clusters: Only with this distinction. The first Vial hath two parts, or two effects (which you will) The first in the earth-quake. The other in the sickle. And the tenth part of the City fell; The earth-quake reacheth but a tenth part, the other nine are reserved for the Sickle.

As there are two Apostacies, and they have each a distinct Head. So they are set forth in this book by two Cities, the one is called the Great Citie; And alwayes so when the first Apostacy is meant. The other hath not the word Great given to it: because the Latter City (or Apostacy) shall not be so large, big, strong, and populous, neither of that antiquity and continuance as the former. Understanding what this City is, i. e. The last Apostacy, It wil be ea∣sier to know the rest. And in the earth∣quake

were slaine of men seven thousand. The Greek hath 7000, Names of men. In Scripture, persons that are famous & renowned for Power, Wealth, Wis∣dome &c. are calledc Men of Name. On the contrary, men without credit and respect in thed world, Children without name: In this last Apostacy, who are Men of name, yea, would be thought and counted the onely men of name? If not Church-members and Church-offi∣cers, those that are in the Congregation∣al way, as they call it: As for the Ca∣vileer Church, that hath no name, and the Presbyterian very little. The Common wealths men and Fift Kingdom men, al under hatches: Their crown is fallen, they must go for a company of ideots, giddie heads & sillie fellowes: In a word all without name that beare a faithfull Testimony to the good old cause. Hence I am perswaded (and in the fear of God I speak it) by the 7000. Names of men, is meant, such

members and officers of Congrega∣tionall churches, and other Profes∣sors of Religion, as have greivously revolted from the Lords work, and the Interest of Christ and his people.

The judgement followes: Were slain. As the Witnesses were not corpo∣rally slain. So may this be understood of a spirituall death upon the Church∣es, Officers, Worship, Government. Which is worse & more grievous than the other. Neither is this without some appearance already; For,

1. Is there not an earth-quake in their Churches: From whence else are all those Rents, Divisions Di∣stractions.

2. Is it not evident that the Lord of late hath very much withdrawn his presence from them: so that they have not the power, comfort, and sweetness of his ordinances as for∣merly.

3. Do not the gifts and parts of their Officers sensibly abate, and wither.

4. For the Characters of the last Apostacy, viz. Self-seeking, Covete∣ousnes, Pride, &c. do they not spread and appear like a Gangreen, every day more and more?

But 5. What means this bitter com∣plaining of late, among the new rai∣sed Masters and Doctors: That the

sons of Zerviah are too hard for them; not onely get away their places, but jeer and deride them. If half be true which themselves report; the Lord hath met with them already for their unfaithfulness. Now howsoever these things are but a beginning, and little to what (probably) will fol∣low; yet enough to shew, if the earth-quake be not come, there is a Type of it at least.

11. The other nine parts of the City (which I take to be the Civill power) these are left to the stokels.e For their vine is worse than the Vine of Sodom, and of the fields of Gomorrah: their grapes are of gall, their clusters are bitter: their wine is the poyson of dra∣gons, and the cruell venome of Aspes. A reason why they aref cast into the great wine-presse of the wrath of God. Observe Reader, Reaping is mans work, but to cause earth-quakes is pro∣per to God. This makes me think that the judgment on Churches, and professors; will be by some immediate hand of God, but the other which is to be executed upon the Civil state, will be by the hands of men,g They

shall take away his Dominion to consume and destroy it unto the end. So then though the latter Apostacy be the sub∣ject of the first vial, yet it must be un∣derstood as Church and State, and the judgements distinct.

12. No sooner are the effects seen of the first viall, buth the Nations are angry,i Iehovah reigneth, the people are stirred: Ask men that have noisome and grievous sores upon them: are ex∣treamly impatient, so prophane men and Idolaters, when they shall see the kingdomes of this world, are become the kingdomes of our Lord and his Christ (as they will soon do in the ef∣fects of the first vial) oh how will they storm and ragel no torment like it. But the children of the kingdome will do otherwise.l The Lord raign∣eth, let the earth rejoyce, let the multi∣tudes of Isles be glad thereof.

I shall conclude with a short word: Though these things should come to passe, yet they may be so mixt as not easily observed, when the Lord shall bring them forth, without mar∣vellous and serious Watchfullness. If to a lit∣tle wine, as much water be put: Though the wine remaine in the vessel; yet not so well to

be known wine, as if no water had been mixt with it. It is my Opinion with much Con∣fidence when the witnesses shall stand on their feet, and ascend up to heaven, and the first An∣gelis pouring out his vial: and the earth-quake come: Here the works, wayes, judg∣ments and appearances, of God, will be so manifold, various and strong: That in this regard very few even of Gods own people (at first) will discern or understand how the JƲDGMENT WRITTEN is executed upon the little Horne, Bottomless Beast, and last A∣postacy.m Watch therefore and pray alwayes that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things which shall come to pass, and to stand before the sonne of man.

FINIS.

Notes

• The Times of finding, 1. When Saints are prepared for mercie.
• a

  1 Sam. 7.2.
• b

  2 Chron. 33.12, 13.
• c

  Jam. 4.3.
• d

  Gen. 15.16.
• Numb. 14.9.
• e

  Dan. 7.25
• Namely in June la••
• f

  2 Chron. 20.33.
• g

  2 Tim. 2.21.
• 2. When the Saints have no∣thing left them for help but God.
• h

  Deut. 32.36.
• i

  Psal. 107.27, 28. see also v. 3, ••, 5, 12, 13.
• k

  2 Chron. 20.12.
• l

  Psa. 6.2.
• m

  Psa. 8••.2. & 109.22, 23.
• n

  Psa. 50.15.
• o

  Psa. 9.9.
• p

  Psa. 102.17.
• Isa. 41.7.
• r

  Mark. 5.26, 27
• f

  Mat. 15.32.
• t

  Luk. 4.29.
• u

  Lam. 1.2.
• 3. When the Enemies of Zion are at the highest.
• x

  Psa. 10.3
• y

  Psa. 119.119.
• a

  Isa. 36.13, 14, 15. & chap. 37.10.
• b

  Exod. 15.9, 10.
• c

  Esth. 5.6.
• d

  Act. 12.
• e

  Exo. 5.2.
• f

  Isa. 51.23.
• g

  Dan. 3.
• h

  Jer. 12.1, 2, 3.
• i

  Hos. 13.6
• k

  Psal. 119.126.
• 4. When Saints make Jesus Christ their all.
• l

  Ps. 73.25.
• m

  Psa. 18.6
• n

  ver. 2.
• Mr. Pate∣man dwel∣ling at Mo∣sley neer Brimming∣ham.
• o

  Rom. 8.31.
• p

  1 Chron. 5.20.
• q

  2 Chron. 14.11, 12.
• r

  2 Chron. 20.12, 17.
• s

  Jer. 39.17.
• t

  Psa. 17.7 & 91.2, 3 12, 13, 14
• u

  1 Sam. 28.6.
• x

  Psal. 73.28.
• y

  ver. 27.
• 5. When the enemies of God are plotting mischief a∣gainst Christ his interest and people.
• a

  Exod. 1.10. & 2 23, 24.
• b

  Act. 12.1, 2, 3.
• c

  Prov. 11.8.
• d

  Psal. 129.3.
• e

  Psa. 52.1
• f

  2 Sam. 15.31.
• g

  2 Sam. 17 14, — 32.
• 6. When Saints are importu∣nate beg∣gars, and will take no nay at Gods hand.
• h

  Jam. 5.16.
• i

  Gen. 32.26.
• k

  Hos. 12.4
• l

  Exod. 3 2.10. Deut. 9.14.
• m

  Jam. 5.17, 18.
• 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉.
• n

  Isa. 64.7.
• o

  Psa. 63.8
• p

  Mat. 11.12.
• q

  Psa. 10.17.
• r

  Luk. 11 ••
• 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉
• s

  Luk. 18.7 8
• t

  Isa. 62.6, 7.
• u

  Isa. 66.8
• x

  Rev. 22.20.
• When the Lord will not be found. 1. When men give up great Priviledges for vain things.
• a

  Heb. 12.16, 17.
• b

  Exod. 22.29.
• c

  Gen. ••9.3
• d

  Deut. 21.17.
• e

  2 Chron. 21.3.
• f

  Numb. 8.14, 17.
• g

  Rom. 8.29
• h

  Heb. 12.35.
• i

  Gen. 25.34.
• k

  1 King. 21.2, 3.
• l

  Gen. 25.34.
• m

  Psal. 84.10.
• n

  Jer. 2.10, 11.
• o

  Pro. 11.4.
• p

  Jer. 6.15
• q

  Mat. 27.3, 45.
• r

  Gen. 25.32.
• 2. No time of finding for old Hy∣pocrites, whose bones are full of the sins of their youth.
• s

  Job 20.11.
• t

  Jer. 13.23.
• u

  Mat. 26.49.
• x

  Hebr. 10.26.
• y

  Jer. 41.5, 6, 7.
• a

  Jer. 7.16. Isa. 1.11, 12
• b

  Mal. 2.13
• 3. When men are so obstinate in their sins, as nothing will reclaim them.
• c

  Pro. 1.24, 25, &c.
• d

  Zech. 7.11, 12, 13.
• e

  Pro. 19.18.
• f

  Rev. 18.4
• g

  1 Pet. 4.17.
• h

  Eze. 9.6.
• i

  Jer. 25.18, 29.
• k

  Hag. 2.6.
• l

  Mic. 6.2.
• m

  ver. 9.
• n

  Rom. 2.24.
• o

  Neh. 9.17
• p

  Ezek. 36.23.
• q

  Amos 2.13.
• r

  Isa. 1.13, 14.
• s

  Isa. 65.5.
• t

  Jer. 25.29
• 4. When men glory in their shame.
• u

  Psa. 52.1
• x

  Dan. 4.30
• y

  Ezek. 30.2.
• a

  Ezek. 18.17, 18.
• b

  Isa. 3.9. Jer. 3.3. & 6.15. & 8.15. Eze. 24.7, 8.
• c

  Mic. 1.11
• d

  Mat. 18.7
• 5. When men are Tyrants & oppressors, there will be no time of finding.
• e

  Jam. 2.13
• f

  Psal. 18.25, 26.
• g

  Mat. 7.1
• h

  Jer. 30.16. Isa. 33.1.
• i

  Josh. 2.1. with chap. 6.22.
• k

  Jer. 39.17, 18.
• l

  Mic. 3.1, 2, 3.
• m

  ver. 4.
• n

  Job. 20.15.
• o

  Exod. 10 17.
• p

  Isa. 22.14
• q

  v. 10.11.
• q

  Isa. 5.18.
• 6. When ingage∣ments and Covenants are broken, and the things built again which were de∣stroyed.
• s

  Pro. 14.14.
• t

  Mat. 27.3, 4, 5.
• u

  Jer. 15.1.
• x

  ver. 4.
• y

  2 Kin. 21.3.
• z

  Read 2 Chro. 29, 30 31. Chap.
• a

  2 Pet. 2.21.
• b

  Jer. 11.10, 11.
• c

  ver. 14.
• d

  Jer. 14.12
• e

  Eccl. 8.2 1 Sam. 21.7
• f

  Josh. 9.15 20.
• 7. No find∣ing time for the vile, when the Lord hath separated the pretious from them.
• f

  Exod. 14.
• g

  Gen. 7.16, 17.
• i

  Gen. 19.
• k

  Eze. 9.5, 6
• l

  Isa. 26.20, 21.
• m

  Gen. 19.22.
• n

  Isa. 30.18.
• o

  2 Pet. 3.9
• Reasons why there will be a time of find∣ing, both in respect of God, his people and Cause. 1. In respect 〈◊〉〈◊〉 himself: Because he is good, and his tender mercies are f••••¦ever.
• p

  Psa. 25.6
• q

  Joel. 2.12, 13.
• r

  2 Sam. 24 14.
• s

  Psal. 103.13.
• Mic. 7.18 19.
• t

  Lam. 3.33
• u

  Isa. 1.24
• x

  Hos. 6.4. & 11.8.
• y

  Psa. 12.5.
• a

  Luk. 18.7, 8.
• b

  1 King. 20.31.
• Reas. 2. He wil be found for his pro∣mise sake.
• c

  Rut. 3.18
• d

  Tit. 1.2.
• e

  Jam. 1.17
• f

  Psa. 50.15
• g

  Mat. 8.3.
• h

  Isa. 45.19
• Exod. 32 13.
• k

  Psal. 119.49.
• l

  1 Kin. 8.25, 26.
• m

  Jer. 14.21.
• n

  Psa. 5.6.
• o

  Mal. 3.6.
• p

  2 Cor. 1.20
• q

  Exo. 2.24
• r

  Chap. 6.5.
• s

  Psal. 105.8.
• t

  ver. 42.
• u

  Psa. 106 44, 45.
• 1 Chron. 17.23.
• x

  2 Kin. 11 14.
• y

  1 Kin. 22 27.
• y

  Luk. 11.45.
• 3. Because the Lord will be ho∣nored many wayes by it.
• a

  By ha∣••ing the ••igh pray∣••••s of his ••eople. Psa. 50.3.
• b

  Exod. 15.••, — 11.
• d

  Rev. 18.•• 1.
• d

  Rev. 19.1
• e

  ver. 3.
• f

  ver. 6.
• g

  Psa. 9.13 4.
• h

  Psal. 79.11, 12, 13.
• i

  Isa. 33.14.
• k

  Psa. 125.5.
• 2. Because of his great Name.
• l

  Josh. 7.9.
• m

  Exod. 32.12.
• n

  2 Sam. 10 4.
• o

  Eze. 8.12 & 9.9 Isa. 29.18.
• p

  Exod 14.15.
• q

  Psa. 106.8
• r

  Neh. 9.31. 1 Kin. 8.41 Jer. 14.7, 21.
• s

  Psa. 115.1
• t

  Psa. 126.5
• u

  Dan. 2.44
• x

  Psa. 83.17, 18.
• y

  Josh. 22.22.
• a

  Isa. 1.26.
• b

  Jer. 3.15.
• c

  1 Tim. 6.15.
• d

  Psa. 67.2.
• 3. Because of Love many ways.
• 1. Love to the Lord himself.
• e

  Psa. 116.1.
• f

  Psa. 18.26.
• 2. To his Truth and ways.
• g

  Isa. 26 9.
• h

  Psa. 6.16.
• i

  Rev. 15.4.
• k

  Mic. 6.16.
• 3. Provo∣king others to love.
• l

  Psa. 31.23, 24.
• m

  Pas. 34.5, 8.
• 4. Others will be provoked by it.
• n

  Exo. 18.7, 8, 9.
• o

  Est. 8.17.
• p

  2 Kin. 18.39.
• q

  Rev. 11.13.
• r

  Rev. 15.3.
• s

  ver. 4.
• 4. Of glori∣fying God by trusting in him.
• t

  Psa. 63.8.
• u

  Rom. 4.20.
• x

  Psa. 9.10
• y

  Psa. 116.2.
• a

  Psa. 65.2.
• b

  Psa. 63.7
• c

  Gen. 22.14.
• d

  Jam. 1.6.
• e

  Judg. 9.15
• f

  1 Sam. 17.37.
• 5. Do him more work and better service.
• g

  Psa. 116.8, 9.
• h

  Mat. 20.3, 4.
• i

  Rev. 14.6.
• k

  Rev. 15.1
• l

  Psa. 149.8.
• m

  Rev. 18.5
• n

  Psa. 104 35.
• o

  Rev. 11.15.
• p

  Eze. 21 27
• r

  Psa. 109.4.
• Isa. 1.2.
• Deut. 32.6.
• Reasons in respect of mourners. 1. Of the revilings of the proud.
• s

  1 Sam. 1.6.
• t

  Psa. 14.6.
• u

  Job 12.4.
• x

  Psa. 42.3.
• y

  vers. 16.
• z

  Psa. 13.34.
• a

  Psa. 140.8.
• b

  Isa. 37.3.
• c

  Luk. 8.24.
• d

  Isa. 66.9.
• e

  Isa. 9.7.
• 2. Because the Lord knowes we are weak∣lings.
• f

  Psa. 103.14.
• g

  Heb. 4.15.
• h

  Isa. 57.17.
• i

  Jon. 2.7.
• k

  Gen. 21.15, 16.
• l

  Pro. 10.3. Psal. 107.5 6, 7.
• m

  Dan. 7.25.
• n

  Psa. 94.14.
• o

  Eccles. 7.7.
• p

  Ezek. 37.11.
• q

  Psa. 125.3.
• r

  Mat. 26.41.
• Ephes. 6.4. Col. 3.21.
• s

  Isa. 43.3.
• 3. Be∣cause they are his friends and servants.
• t

  Psa. 119.125.
• u

  2 Kin. 3.13.
• x

  Psa. 18.41.
• y

  Luk. 22.28.
• a

  Isa. 58.9.
• b

  Isa. 49.15.
• c

  Psa. 57.18.
• d

  Psal. 30.11.
• 4. Because in seeking him they seek onely his glory.
• e

  Isa. 2.17.
• f

  Phil. 1.21.
• g

  1 Cor. 4.3.
• h

  1 Kin. 3.10, 11.
• i.

  Hos. 7.14
• k

  Mat. 6.9.
• 5. Because Jesus Christ moves and intercedes for them.
• l

  Rev. 8.3 4.
• m

  Rom. 8.34.
• n

  Son. 8.6.
• o

  Heb. 4.5.
• p

  1 Kin. 2.17.
• q

  Psa. 2.8.
• r

  Psa. 72.15.
• s

  Heb. 10.13.
• t

  Rev. 11.15.
• u

  Ezek. 21▪ 27.
• x

  Heb. 7.25
• y

  Zech. 1.5.
• a

  Ezek. 22.30.
• b

  Psa. 74.9
• c

  Isa. 63.16.
• d

  Luk. 19.27.
• e

  Rev. 11.17.
• 6. Because they seek him with the groan∣ings of the Spirit.
• f

  Jude 20.
• g

  Isa. 26.12.
• h

  1 Chron- 29.14.
• i

  Gen. 1.31.
• k

  Neh. 4.1, 2, 3.
• l

  Psal. 65.5.
• m

  Rom. 8.26, 17.
• n

  Isa. 38.13.
• o

  1 Sam. 1.13.
• p

  Psa. 142.2.
• q

  1 Sam. 1 8,
• r

  Gen. 30.1.
• s

  Psa. 77.2.
• t

  Isa. 62.6, 7.
• u

  1 Joh. 2.19.
• x

  Rom. 8 27
• y

  Luk. 22 42.
• a

  Act. 21.14.
• b

  Isa. 28.15.
• c

  2 King. 2.11.
• d

  Lam. 1.16.
• e

  Isa. 57.1 P.
• f

  Isa. 6.5.
• g

  2 Pet. 1.19.
• h

  Act. 9.6.
• i

  Isa. 58.3, 4, 5, 6.
• k

  Pro. 1.3.
• l

  Hos. 6.6.
• Because the Lord is teaching the art of seeking.
• m

  Mar. 11.24.
• n

  Jam. 5.16.
• o

  Eph. 6.18.
• p

  Luk. 18.1.
• q

  1 Sam. 17.49.
• r

  Verse 47.
• A time of finding, be∣cause of the good things prayed for.
• s

  1 John 5.14, 15.
• t

  1 King 2.21, 22.
• Psa. 80.4.
• t

  1 Cor. 14.15.
• u

  Psa. 14.2.
• x

  Mal. 3.15
• y

  Isa. 66.3.
• a

  Mal. 1.14.
• b

  Isa. 5.20.
• The good things pray∣ed for.
• c

  Ha••. 3.2.
• d

  Luk. 21.33.
• Reasons why no time of finding. 1. Because in their prosperity they will not know the Lord.
• e

  Deut. 32.15.
• f

  Psa. 75.5.
• g

  Job. 21.14, 15.
• h

  Psal. 10. ••.
• i

  Job 27.9.
• k

  Isa 55.6.
• l

  2 Cor. 6.2.
• m

  Heb. 3.15.
• n

  1 Chr. 10.14.
• o

  1 Sam. 28.6.
• p

  Isa. 8.12.
• Because of their sinful places and standings in Babilon & the last A∣postacy.
• q

  2 Tim. 3.5.
• r

  2 Cor. 6— 17, 18.
• s

  Exod. 23.2.
• t

  Rev. 18.4.
• u

  Eph. 5.11.
• x

  Num. 16.27.
• y

  Psal. 131.2.
• a

  Zeph. 2.1, 2, 3.
• Rev. 14.3.
• †

  Ver. 4.
• b

  Gen. 6.8.
• c

  Gen. 7.1.
• d

  2 Tim. 2.2, 3, &c.
• e

  1 Tim. 6.10.
• f

  Act. 19.25
• g

  1 Sam. 22.7.
• Jer. 17.11.
• h

  Jer. 15.19.
• i

  2 John 8.
• k

  Eze. 13.9.
• l

  Jer. 22.18, 19.
• m

  1 Cor. 3.13, 15.
• n

  Isa. 1.15. & 59.2.
• 3. Because their hands are full of blood.
• o

  2 Sam. 23.16, 17.
• p

  Lu. 16.19.
• q

  Hab. 2.12
• r

  Nah. 3.1.
• r

  Psal. 120.3.
• s

  Isa. 1.18.
• t

  Mica. 6.6, 7.
• u

  Psal. 32.2, 3. &c.
• x

  Psal. 51.8.
• y

  Heb. 6.6.
• 4 Because of mens allow∣ing them∣selves in some know a wickedness.
• a

  Psal. 66.18.
• b

  Isa. 56.20.
• c

  Job 20.12, 13.
• d

  Mat. 28.12, 13, 14.
• e

  Esth. 3.8, 9. &c.
• f

  1 Kin. 21.9.

  Jer. 41.6.
• g

  1 Kin. 22.8.
• h

  Isa. 3.9.
• i

  Mat. 12.43, 44, 45.
• 5. Because if spared, they would pre∣sume, g••ow more confi∣dent and vile.
• k

  Eccl. 8.11.
• l

  Psa. 7.11.
• m

  2 Pet. 3.3, 4.
• n

  Jer. 5.12, 13.
• o

  1 Sam. 15.32.
• p

  Eze. 12.22.
• q

  Jer. 7.10.
• r

  Amos 5.18.
• s

  Jer. 51.20.
• t

  Rev 15.1.
• u

  Isa. 27.1.
• x

  Isa. 8.19.
• y

  Luk. 14.14.
• a

  Psal. 2.3.
• b

  Mat. 2.2, 13.
• c

  Jer. 5.14, 15.
• d

  Isa. 5.25.
• e

  Amos 5.21. Jer. 7.16.
• 6. God is many ways glorified when cor∣rupt men have not a time of finding.
• 1. In vin∣dicating his providence and great Name.
• f

  Psa. 50.2 i.
• g

  Psa. 119.70.
• h

  Zeph. 1.12.
• i

  Mat. 2.17.
• k

  Ibid.
• l

  Rev. 15.4.
• 2. By making himself known in his truth & cause.
• m

  Psal. 9.16.
• n

  Psa. 58.11.
• o

  Isa. 46.9.
• p

  Deut. 33.29.
• q

  Eze. 6.14.
• r

  Esth. 8.17.
• s

  Psa. 2.1.
• t

  Rom. 1.4.
• 3. By being glorifyed of some, be∣cause others are punish∣ed.
• u

  Rev. 11.13.
• x

  Rev. 14.15.
• y

  Isa. 26.9.
• a

  2 Tim. 3.2, 3, 4.
• b

  Job. 21.30
• c

  Pro. 16.4.
• d

  Psa. 97.8
• 4. I•• being at rest and satisfied when he hath execu∣ted his judgments upon Apo∣states.
• e

  Ezek. 5.13.
• f

  Hos. 10.10.
• g

  IsI. 1.24.
• h

  Jon. 1.4, 15.
• i

  Josh. 7.2.6.
• k

  2 Sam. 21.14.
• l

  Ezek. 16.42.
• m

  Isa. 10.25.
• n

  Esth. 7.10
• o

  Rev. 3.16
• Rev. 12.4
• 7. Because men weep for the pu∣nishment of their sins, but not for their sins causing the punishment.
• p

  Deut. 1.44, 45.
• 1 Chron. 21.17.
• q

  Jon 3.8, 10.
• r

  Josh. 7.12.
• s

  2 Sam. 21 1, 2. &c.
• t

  Pro. 28.13.
• How a time of finding may be known. 1. When all fears are re∣moved, and the spirit quiet.
• u

  Psal. 34.4, 6.
• x

  1 Sam. 21.10, 11, 12. &c.
• y

  Psa. 6.6.
• a

  Psa. 69.3.
• b

  Psa. 27.1
• c

  Psa. 3.1.
• d

  2 Sam. 15 12.
• e

  Phil. 1.28
• f

  Isa. 33.14
• g

  Gen. 4.15
• h

  Pro. 14.13.
• i

  Jer. 20.3, 4.
• k

  Job 15.21
• l

  Deut. 28.66.
• m

  Psa. 112.7.
• n

  Jer. 49.23.
• 2. It is a time of find∣ing, when the Spirit faints not, but is kept lively up in the duty of seeking.
• o

  Isa. 40.29, 30, 31.
• p

  Psa. 20.8. & 33.16. & 52.7.
• q

  1 Cor. 1.27, 28.
• r

  2 Cor. 12.9.
• s

  Joh. 15.5.
• t

  Phil. 4.13.
• u

  2 Cor. 8 9
• x

  Phil. 1.6.
• y

  Gal. 6.9.10.
• a

  Mal. 3.14.
• b

  Mat. 15.21, 22. &c.
• c

  Eccl. 7.4.
• d

  Luk. 6.21.
• e

  Ver. 25.
• 3. A time of finding when Saints rest fully sa∣tisfied in the things they ask.
• f

  2 Cor. 12.9.
• g

  Psa. 126.2.
• h

  Psal. 7.17. & 13.6. & 42.11.
• i

  Deut. 33.23.
• k

  Pro. 13.25.
• l

  Song 2.
• m

  Son. 7.6.
• n

  Isa. 25.6.
• o

  Mal. 2.2.
• p

  Isa. 1.14. Amos. 5.21
• q

  Pro. 15.8
• r

  Jude 8.
• r

  Mat. 8.16.
• s

  1 Cor. 3.22.
• 4. A time of finding, when Saints have the things gran∣ted & done for them which they asked.
• t

  Isa. 65.23.
• u

  Isa. 58.9. & 30.19.
• x

  Gen. 32.28.
• y

  Num. 14.20.
• a

  2 Chr. 20.11, 12.
• b

  2 Ki. 20.5.
• c

  1 Kin. 18.37, 38.
• d

  Dan. 9.20. & 10.12
• e

  Pro. 9.10.
• f

  2 Tim. 3.9
• g

  1 Cor. 13.7.
• h

  2 Tim. 3.1
• i

  2 Tim. 3.2
• k

  Pro. 26.8
• l

  Pro. 30.15.
• m

  Mat. 23 3.
• n

  Pro. 9.12
• o

  2 Kin. 4.16.
• p

  ver. 13.
• Amos. 7.12.
• p

  Zech. 13.4.
• q

  Isa. 29.14.
• r

  Pro. 20.3.
• s

  Pro. 10.8.
• t

  Isa. 28.15.
• u

  Prov. 14.15.
• x

  John 19.••5.
• a

  Gen. 15.18.
• b

  Lev. 18.24, 25.
• c

  Deut. 2.4.8, 9, 13.
• d

  Num. 20.14, 15.
• e

  Num. 22.5.
• f

  Psa. 35.11.
• g

  Prov. 15.34.
• h

  2 Thes. 11, 12.
• i

  Psa. 1.17.
• k

  Pro. 28.15.
• k

  Mic. 4.10
• k

  Psa. 83.13.
• l

  Isa. 43.28.
• Pro. 28.3.
• m

  Psa. 7.14.
• n

  Judg. 9.23.
• o

  2 Chr. 20.23.
• p

  2 Sam. 13.15.
• q

  Judg. 11.7.
• r

  Heb. 11.25.
• s

  Mat. 16.24.
• t

  Mat. 18.8, 9.
• u

  2 Kin. 5.18.
• x

  Psa. 57.16.
• y

  Eccl. 4.6.
• a

  Pro. 17.1.
• b

  Pro. 15.17.
• c

  Prov. 28.21.
• d

  1 Sam. 15 14.
• e

  1 Sam. 25 17.
• f

  Rev. 11.9 Rev. 12.17.
• h

  Mat. 4.9.
• i

  Psa. 107.8.
• Rev. 3.4.
• l

  Jam. 1.27
• Judg. 7.7.
• n

  Jer. 24.2
• A Time of Finding, when the things ask∣ed, are seen and recei∣ved by Faith.
• o

  Sam. 1.18
• p

  Exod. 14 13, 14.
• q

  Lev. 18.28.
• r

  Dan. 7.27
• s

  Ps. 125.5.
• t

  2 Tim. 10.3.1
• A Book entituled Truth with Time.
• u

  Job 18.5.8, 9, 10
• x

  Rev. 15.3
• y

  Cor. 11.19
• a

  Gen. 22.12.
• b

  Rom. 11.28.
• c

  Rev. 11.••4.
• d

  Exod. 5.9.
• e

  Josh. 12.24.
• f

  Rev. 11.
• g

  Jer. 51.13.
• h

  Ps. 119.70.
• i

  Joh. 11.4.
• k

  Ps. 78.65.
• l

  Luk. 14.30.
• m

  Ezek. 36.23.
• n

  Judg. 13.23.
• o

  1 Sam. 3.12.
• p

  Lam. 3.33
• q

  Isa. 57.18
• r

  Ps. 85.6.
• s

  Pro. 29.2.
• t

  Pro. 11.10
• u

  Ps. 110.12
• x

  Psal. 2; 6.
• y

  Isa. 60.18
• a

  Ps. 85.11.
• b

  Dan. 7.22
• c

  Jos. 7.11.
• d

  Jer. 5.55.
• e

  Ps. 85.1, 2
• f

  Isa. 44.22
• g

  I••el 2, 17.
• h

  Hos. 14.2.
• i

  Num. 3.3 55.
• k

  Iosh. 23.13.
• l

  Ezra 9.14
• m

  John 11.39, 41.
• n

  Ezek. 36.37.
• o

  Mat. 7.7.
• p

  Zac. 2.13
• q

  Gen. 49.9
• r

  Psal. 90.13, 14, 15, 16, 17.
• s

  Luke 12.35, 36.
• t

  Rev. 14.1, 4, 5.
• u

  Ec. 10.16
• x

  Heb. 10.23.
• y

  verse 35.
• a

  Psal. 102 18.
• b

  Isa. 13.3.
• c

  Rev. 17.14
• d

  Rev. 15.6.
• e

  Psal. 139.
• f

  Ecc. 11.5.
• g

  Job 28.23.
• h

  Rom. 12.5.
• i

  Rev. 14.15
• k

  Mat. 17.20.
• m

  Ps. 11.6.
• n

  Zach. 2.7
• o

  Ecc. 3.11.
• p

  Ps. 111.3
• q

  Act. 1.7.
• r

  Gen. 1.16.
• s

  Ezek. 10.12.
• t

  Ps. 83.15.
• u

  Ps. 50.22.
• x

  2 Pet. 2.15.
• y

  Deut. 32.41, 42.
• a

  2 Chr. 24. from 16. to 26.
• b

  2 Chr. 25.25, 26, 27.
• c

  1 Sam. 2.25.
• d

  cap. 4.11.
• Mat. 16.
• f

  Isa. 63.5.
• g

  Amos 7.2
• h

  Mat. 25.15.16
• i

  Deut. 23.4.
• k

  2 Sam. 17.23.
• g

  Ma.. 27.5
• h

  Act. 1.18
• l

  Psal. 46.8
• l

  Pro. 4.19.
• m

  v. 18.
• n

  Rev.: 12.6.
• o

  Rev. 13.5
• p

  Job. 28.22.28, 29.
• Deu. 32.34:
• q

  Isa. 48.14.
• r

  Luke 17.20:
• s

  Isa. 26.11
• u

  1 Joh. 2:20:
• x

  Psal. 36.6
• y

  Rom. 11.33.
• a

  Rev. 15.3
• b

  Ps. 77.19.
• c

  Ps. 86.17
• d

  Is. 63.3.
• e

  Isa. 34.8.
• f

  Dan. 7.25
• g

  Isa. 10.7:
• h

  Mat. 21:19.
• i

  Sam. 15.32.
• k

  Prov. 27:1.
• l

  Job. 10.10
• m

  Luk. 12.19.20.
• n

  Act. 1 25.
• o

  Num. 14.9.
• p

  Exo. 12.40.42.
• q

  Rev. 11.11.
• r

  Rev. 11.11
• s

  Psal. 139.15.
• t

  Mat. 24.27.
• u

  Rev. 14.2
• x

  Jer. 50.14
• y

  Rev. 14.2
• z

  2 King. 3.15.
• a

  Mat. 26.69.
• b

  Act. 4.13.
• c

  Zech. 12.4
• d

  Rev. 11.11
• e

  Act. 5.24:
• f

  Jer. 31.23
• g

  Isa. 26.2.
• h

  Psa. 76.5
• i

  Zep. 39.
• k

  Isa. 11.13
• l

  Eze. 37.17
• m

  1 Chr. 12.32.
• n

  Rev. 11.12.
• o

  Isa. 13.4.
• p

  Rev. 19.14
• q

  Rev. 15.6
• Psa. 110.2
• r

  Rev. 14.1
• s

  Rev. 11, 12
• t

  Isa. 52.12.
• u

  Isa. 47.12
• x

  Isa. 13.3
• y

  Ps. 149.8, 9, 10.
• z

  Rev. 11.13.
• a

  Rev. 16.2
• b

  Rev. 14.16.17, 18.
• c

  Gen. 6.4. Num. 18.2.
• d

  Job 30.8.
• e

  Deu. 32.32, 33.
• f

  Rev. 14.19 20.
• g

  Dan. 7.26
• h

  Rev. 11.18.
• i

  Ps. 99.1.
• k

  Rev. 16.2.
• l

  Ps. 97.1.
• m

  Luk: 21.38.