Eternal glorification begun in regeneration, or, A discourse of regeneration intended for the profit of all, both regenerate and unregenerate persons / by Stephen Ford.

ETERNAL GLORIFICATION BEGUN IN REGENERATION. OR A Discourse of Regeneration.

From John 3.3.

Jesus answered and said unto him: verily, verily, I say unto thee; except a man be born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God.

Beloved,

I Shall begin this Lecture, (which you have desired, and are now waiting on) with the Doctrin of Regeneration: because it is one of the great fundamental and Soul-saving Doctrins that you should first understand, and be early and experimentally acquainted withall. Here God begun with

Ignorant and unregenerate Nicodemus, and here he begins to open the door of everlasting Life unto such as he will save; and by Re∣generation you must begin to seek for and expect Salvation, and eternal Glory. It is the Lords fixed and constant way, to send down and infuse into the hearts of men the first fruits of Heaven, in order to his possessing them in the fullness of everlasting Glory in Heaven.

The seeds of special grace sown in the Soul in Regeneration, are the earnests and first fruits of Heavens glory. And as it is a certain Truth, that without Regeneration here, men cannot be saved hereafter; so it is as certain, that whoever are really Regene∣rated here, they shall be saved hereafter.

This is a Truth that nearly concerns every one of you, and therefore requires your serious attention and consideration; for here God will begin to save you, if ever you be saved.

The words in the Text are spoken by Jesus Christ unto Nicodemus, as you may read in the 1. & 2. verses. The subject matter of the Text is, or contains Regeneration, or the Renova∣tion of men, in order to their eternal Sal∣vation; and they are spoken to and intended for us, as well as Nicodemus, because we are all by nature in as had and miserable a condition as he, and stand in as much need of Regene∣ration and the Doctrin thereof, as Nicodemus did when Christ spake these words to him;

and therefore observe how Christ words the matter, verily, verily, I say unto thee; except a man be born again. That is, unless thou Nico∣demus, to whom I do now immediately direct my Doctrin, and other persons in thy pre∣sent case and condition; except a man, that is, thou, or any other man, be born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God, so vers. 5. And it is observable how the Lord Jesus ushers in the matter or Doctrin of Regeneration in the Text, and vers. 5. tis with a double assevera∣tion; verily, verily, (Text) and again, verily, verily 5. vers. which informs us of these four things;

First that the matter of Christ was speaking of, was a very great and weighty matter in∣deed, and such as Nicodemus, and other men, were indispensibly bound on pain of eternal death, to take notice of, and concern them∣selves about with all possible diligence and faithfulness; for it was for their Lives, ex∣cept a man be born again, he cannot see the King∣dom of God; that is, he cannot be saved. And therefore he quickens and provokes the minds of men to ponder the matter, and lay it to heart, by his verily, and verily, I say, &c.

2. That we are dull of hearing, and slow of heart to believe, and apply this great Doctrin to our own Souls; but to imagin and fancy that we stand in no, or very little need of it; and therefore may overlook, slight, and neglect it, as most men do. 3. That the Lord Jesus is very serious, hearty, and earnest with men, in perswading them to seek

after Regeneration, and that he doth really and unfainedly desire to see them serious in that so great concern of theirs, and to labour after it to purpose. 4. That there is such a thing as Regeneration, and that men may be Regenerated if they will not slight and op∣pose it. These and other such things were in the eye and heart of Christ towards men, in speaking thus to them, which he would have them believe, and think on, in his veri∣lies.

I shall have occasion in my proceedures to speak further to this Text, and therefore shall speak no more of it now, but proceed to what I intend to commend to your serious consi∣derations. These are the most material heads I am to discourse on, which I shall do, by way of Question and Answer.

Quest. What is Regeneration? wherein does it consist, or what does it contain or im∣port?

Answ. Regeneration, is a special, powerful, and saving work of God, on a sinner; changing and renewing his whole man, by infusing a measure of the Spirit, and special grace of Christ into him, through the Ministry of the Gospel, and that for holy and gracious ends and purposes. This is the best definition I can give you of Regenera∣tion, and I think it will serve, and do well enough, if rightly understood and improved by you. If any material thing be found wan∣ting, it may be afterward supplied. I shall

take abroad the parts of the definition, and briefly clear and prove it; and then pro∣ceed.

First, You have the Author and Worker of Re∣generation; that is God. God is the sole and only Author of it, without the help or assistance of men. God needs none of their help, neither can they afford him any at all, towards their Renovation; and therefore it is God alone.

For first, men are all dead in sins and Tres∣passes, Eph. 2.1, 5. and therefore cannot move themselves, to produce new habits or prin∣ciples of that they have not, nor can they set forward the great work of Regeneration in themselves, for want of Life to act with∣all.

2. Blind. They are in gross darkness, Isa. 60.2. They cannot so much as see where, nor what they are, nor where they are going, Joh. 12 35. They are born blind, and con∣tinue such. They see not the Light that shines round about them; Joh. 1.5. much less can they direct themselves in procuring, or for∣warding their own Regeneration.

3. There is nothing in them to make use of, towards the production of it, but very much to impede and hinder the work. They will it not, neither will they suffer God to do it, until he hath mightily perswaded and bowed them to yield; Phil. 2.13. Psal. 110.3. therefore it is not in them to work it in themselves. As they will not come to Christ that

they may have Life, Joh. 5.40. so they will not have him to come and create his Life in them.

Therefore, it must be of God alone, with∣out the concurrance of second causes in men. And I say 'tis the work of God, and not of one of the glorious persons only, (although the work be especially attributed to the holy Ghost) but God the father hath his Almighty hand imployed in the work. Eph. 1.19, 20. 1 Pet. 1.3. and so hath Jesus Christ his son too, Joh. 5.21. Joh. 10.10. so it is also the holy Spirits work. Joh. 3.5. Tit. 3.5. The Reasons why the Scripture tells us all the persons in the God-head have their hand in the work of Regeneration, are, First, to shew, and impress a deep sense of the exceeding greatness and excellency of the work, on the hearts of Regenerate persons: that they might be induced thereby to admire and value it, and to have it in high esteem, as a most excellent and glorious work indeed, which had so many hands of infinite wisdom, power, and love exercised and imployed about the effecting of it. 2. That they might be di∣rected and provoked thereby, to ascribe all the glory unto all the three persons, and not to the holy Ghost only.

'Tis true, that men unregenerate ought to use Gods means in order to Regeneration; they are to hear the Gospel preached, read the Scriptures and good Books, and to pray to God to Regenerate them; because God hath

commanded them so to do. Ezek. 36.25, 26, 27, 37. Luk. 11.13. and also because they are the ways and means of Gods own appoin∣ting for their Regeneration, whereby he will work it. Jam. 1.18. Rom. 10. Joh. 15.3. But yet your using the means and waiting in them, cannot Regenerate you, until God put forth his Almighty power in them, and form a new Creature in you. God tells us again and again, that it is his work alone, and that there is none to help him. Eph. 2.8, 9, 10. Tit. 3.5. to take off all boasting from men, and that he that glories, might glory in the Lord, 1 Cor. 1.31.

'Tis said to be a special, powerful, and sa∣ving work (of God) to distinguish it from those common and ordinary works, or work∣ings of God on many, which never arises to, or Issues in real Regeneration on their Souls. First, it is a special work; it differs not only in the degree or measure of it, but in the kind. There is a specifical difference between what God works in, and bestows upon such as he Regenerates, and others who are never Re∣generated, although he bestows many Spiri∣tual gifts on them. 1. In the root and spring of his gifts and favours, Namely, his Love in Christ. That is the Fountain and efficient cause of their Regeneration, or of the grace and power whereby they are Regenerated. Eph. 2.4, 5. Deut. 7.6.7. &c. God had loved and chosen them in the Lord Jesus, to be a peculiar people unto himself, and therefore

Regenerates, and makes them such by his grace.

But God doth not so love others, neither hath he chosen them in Christ, and Sanctified them to his use, to be his peculiars, and there∣fore he never effectually Regenerates them. Rom. 9.21, 22, 23, 24, 25. And yet no one person is denied Regenerating grace, but such as by their own wickedness do procure it unto themselves: and therefore none shall have cause to complain of partial, unjust, or cruel dealing from the God of Truth, with whom is no unrighteousness.

2. There is a difference in the grace its self, although it is hard to express and clear it, to your Apprehensions, yet a wide difference there is between the grace and gifts of the Spirit on men, some are awakened, enlightened and reformed by the holy Ghost, which never are indeed Regenerated. I shall not discourse of the differences here, but only shall tell you, that special grace hath virtue in it to enliven, as well as to enlighten, to quicken dead Souls, and revive dead hearts, as well as to enlighten the head. Common grace may put Light into the head, but never quickens and enlivens the heart, but special grace doth both; and that from its own nature and tendancy; for it is given for that end, Namely, to cause the dead to live, and the blind to see Spiritual things Spiritu∣ally. 1 Cor. 2. There is a generative and re∣newing nature and virtue in the one, that is not in the other. But more of this elsewhere.

3. There is also a specifical difference in the ends, special grace is given by the God of Love, and from the Love of God to some, to conform them to, and mould them for the Lords special use and service, to make them lovely and aimable; pleasing and delightful to him; that he may delight in them, and they in him, and be made capable of Communion with himself. 1 Cor. 1.9. Joh. 14.21, 23. 1 Joh. 1.3. That they may be vessels of honour fitted for his use; live to him, and not unto them∣selves. 2 Tim. 2.20, 21. 2 Cor. 5.14, 15. and also that they may live in the fruition and presence of God for ever, in another world.

But now common graces are not given for these ends, because they cannot effect them. They leave men in as bad a state as they found them in. Their hearts are not changed, neither made new Creatures by them, but remain under the reign and power of their lusts, and are Lovers and obeyers of them under their com∣mon grace.

2. It is the powerful work of God; that is, Regenerating grace is Irresistable. It carries all before it, and prevails. It is mighty in opposing, resisting, and conquering all its Enemies; to prosecute and obtain its ends, which the common works of God are not, (as experience shews) where Regenerating grace comes, it dislodges Satan, and turns him out of his Throne, Luk. 11.21.22. Luk. 10.18. It silences carnal self, and fells down lusts. Gal. 1.16. makes the old man bow down, yea,

and all the strong-holds of sin and Satan, fall before it. 2 Cor. 10.4.5. It will not be baffled as common grace is; for that gives place to Lusts and Temptations upon every assault; but Regenerating grace is so mighty and powerful, as that it takes the strongest Castles, disarmes the stoutest Souldiers, and levels the strongest and highest Bulworks of sin, world, and devil; so that it effectually subdues and captivates all opposers, and op∣positions whatsoever, and makes the whole Soul to yeild subjection to, and comply with it. It makes men willingly desert their old delights, & break their former confederacies, and to put themselves under the yoke of Christ, and chuse his service.

3. It is a saving work of God. It is not for a time as the common work of grace is, Math. 13.20, 21. but it is for ever, Regene∣ration is little in the seed, but grows to a great Tree. Men are Regenerated for Sal∣vation, 2 Cor. 5.1, 6. and it will not fail, or miss of its end. Regeneration is the ea••nest and first fruit of Salvation, and Gods power is engaged to nourish and keep it to Salvation, 1 Pet. 1 3, 4, 5. therefore they cannot lose the very end of it. God would never bestow the grace of Regeneration on men, if he had not first designed their eternal Salvation to be obtained in that way; but he having decreed and appointed; designed and determined the saving of Souls, by or through Regeneration; all that he Regene∣rates

shall be saved. And therefore I call it the saving work of God, because it shall cer∣tainly Issue in their everlasting Salvation, notwithstanding their oppositions, weaknesses and sins.

3. The subjects of Regeneration, Namely, sinners, that is Ignorant, vile, wicked, and abominable men. Not such as have purified themselves, made satisfaction to God for former injuries; such as are worthy or meet for the grace of God, or such as are friends, and to whom God is engaged for any good∣ness of theirs, or service they have done him; no, but God of his free grace Regenerates sinners, while they are yet sinners and ungod∣ly. God finds them sinners, and by Regene∣ration, makes them Saints; of hateful per∣sons, he makes them lovely and beloved; of enmies, he makes them friends, and of stran∣gers he makes them intimates. God says unto men in their blood, live, Ezek. 16.6. Tit. 3.3, 4, 5. and the vilest of sinners he washes. 1 Cor. 6.9, 10.11. Rom. 3.9. - 20. Therefore here is great encouragement for all willing sinners, how vile, filthy and abominable so∣ever they have been, that they may be Rege∣nerated and made new Creatures.

4. Regeneration changes and renews the whole man. It is powerful and effectual on the whole body, Soul and Spirit, to revive, quicken and renew it. It affects every part, and 'tis influential to prosecute and obtain its ends throughout. As the natural Life

diffuses its self into every part of the man, so doth the new Spiritual Life in Regenera∣tion. 1 Thes. 5.23. The understanding is thereby enlightened, 1 Pet 2.9. 2 Cor. 4.6. the will is sanctified and drawn to choose and close up with the promises, Christ and the Co∣venant of grace, and with the whole will of God. Isa. 56.4. Psal. 119.30. Psal. 110.3. Phil. 2.13. Col. 2.6.

The mind is Spiritualized and set on hea∣venly objects. Phil. 3.20. 2 Cor. 3. ult. Rom. 8.5. The affections are quickened, enlivened, and run Heaven-ward, being risen to a new Life with Christ. Col. 3.1, 2. in a word, the Conscience is made tender and active, to do its work, and the whole of his conversation is changed; all things are become new. 2 Cor. 5.17. The grace of God hath (in measure) seasoned and leavened the whole man, within and without: there is not a faculty or mem∣ber of Soul or Body untoucht, but grace runs thorow every part. But more of this anon. For I am now but pointing out to you the parts of the definition of Regene∣ration.

5. Regeneration is wrought by infusing a measure of the holy Spirit and special grace of Christ into a man. In Joh. 3.3. men are said to be born from Heaven; and vers. 5. to be born of the Spirit. The Spirit is called the Spirit of Christ, Rom. 8.9. and the grace of Christ, 2 Cor. 13. ult. and this Spirit and grace of Christ is said to be in men, Rom. 8.11. and Christ

by them dwells in men. Eph. 3.17. and says God in the New Covenant, I will put my Spi∣rit within them, and a new heart will I give them: Sprinkle clean water on them, and make them clean. Ezek. 36.25, 26, 27. So he puts his fear into mens hearts, Jer. 32.39, 40. and sheds abroad his love in them, Rom. 5.8. A Believers new state is twofold, 1. A state of Justification. 2. Regeneration. Justification is Gods impu∣ting the Righteousness of Christ to him, ac∣quitting and discharging him of Guilt and Condemnation, pardoning all his sins, re∣voking the Sentence of the Law given out against him, removing the Curse, and remit∣ting the punishment due to him, and graci∣ously accounting and declaring him perfect∣ly righteous in Christ, and receiving and ac∣cepting him into favour and friendship, 2 Cor. 5. ult. 1 Cor. 1.30. Isa. 53. Rom. 4. Gal. 3.

This is not Regeneration (though Justifi∣cation and Regeneration are never separated) for Regeneration is the work of God within us; Justification is the Act of God without us: Regeneration is not our Justification, neither is Justification our Regeneration, al∣though all that are Regenerated are also Justi∣fied. There is a great difference between the one and the other, which we must carefully understand, and consider well, lest we con∣found what ought to be distinguished. God doth not Justifie us by Regenerating us; they are two distinct Acts, or works of God to∣wards us, and so we ought to understand,

and make improvement of them: Therefore (I say) in defining Regeneration, that it is the work of God, infusing the Spirit and Grace of Christ into us, that you may distinguish it from Gods Act in Justifying us; for many poor Souls do miserably confound them.

6. Regeneration is wrought by the Mi∣nistry of the Gospel. God doth (ordinarily) Regenerate men by the Preaching of the Gos∣pel. By mens Preaching and hearing of the Gospel, the holy Ghost is given unto men, to to change their hearts, and make them new Creatures. Acts 10.44. Gal 3.2. The Gospel shews us, that faith comes by hearing, Rom. 10.17. that is, God works faith and all other graces in men by it, as in and by his own ordinance. By this Instrument he begets us again to a lively hope, Jam. 1.18. 1 Pet. 1.3. It is the power of God to Salvation. Rom. 1.16. and Christ tells us, Joh. 5.25. that the dead shall hear the voice of the son of God, and they that hear shall live. So Isa. 55.3. This is Gods engin whereby he pulls down strong holds, levels mountains, and overthrows the Devils Kingdom, as the blow∣ing of the Rams horns did fell down the walls of Jericho. By this means the dead are raised to Life, the blind are made to see, Acts 26.18. and deaf ears are unstoped. By the Gospel, men are Translated out of the Kingdom of darkness, into Christ's Kingdom of Light.

7. God Regenerates men to and for holy and gracious ends and purposes. They are created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God

had before ordained that they should walk in them. Eph. 2.10. That they that live should not hence∣forth live unto themselves, but unto him that dyed for them and rose again. 2 Cor. 5.15. That they should walk in newness of Life, and not serve sin. Rom. 6.4, 6. God Crowns them with, and makes them the subject of his special grace, that they may be Agents of his glory, in bringing forth fruit worthy of their new state.

God hath great ends in bestowing great grace, and special ends in giving special grace. God honours and beautifies men with his grace, that they may therewith adorn his Gos∣pel and exalt his name. By Regeneration God makes men loving and lovely, and mee∣tens them for communion with himself. I have (I think) said enough to or of the de∣finition of Regeneration, therefore shall say no more of it in this place.

Quest. Pray explain the great work of Re∣generation more fully, and shew us what those works of God on men are, that do not amount to, or ordinarily Issue in Regeneration, that so we may clearly understand what Regenera∣tion is not, and also what it is?

Answ. I shall first shew what tis not. 2. What it is, more fully.

First, Meer light in the head is not Re∣generation. For men may have much Spiri∣tual light without Spirittual Life. Some are enlightened, who fall away from the truth,

and become Apostates, Heb. 6.4, 5, 6. and after they have known the way of Righteousness, do turn from the holy commands of God, to their own wicked ways. 2 Pet. 2.21, 22. And we read of some who knew their Lords will, but did it not, Luk. 12.47. which shews that they were ne∣ver Regenerated.

Secondly, Men may have many and great convictions of sin, and of their miserable and wretched conditions by reason thereof; they may be under much trouble of Spirit, and cry out with tears and heart-grief, and they may mourn, and be in bitterness of Soul, in the sight of their sad case, and perishing state; and yet all may be blown over, and come to nothing, but end in sin and eternal death. Pharoah crys out, I am wicked, Exod. 9.27. and Saul saw his wickedness, and wept, 1 Sam. 24.16. and confessed his sin, 1 Sam. 26.21. Wicked Ahab had conviction of, and was greatly troubled for his sin, and humbled himself, 1 King. 21.27, 28, 29. so the Israe∣lites in the Wilderness, and afterward. Judas was troubled, and crys, I have sinned, Matth. 26.3, 4. yet none of them were Regenera∣ted.

Thirdly, Men may greatly reform their ways, and look like New Creatures; their Conversations may be white, while their hearts are black; they may have a clean out∣side, when they are foul and abominable within; they may appear beautiful to men, whilest they are but whited Sepulchres, and

full of all manner of wickedness within, Mat. 23.25, 26, 27, 28. they may be washed, and yet be still Swine, 2 Pet. 2.22. and they may go for Saints amongst men, whilest they are Devils within: Judas was so; and the Lord Jesus tells us, that many go in Sheeps cloathing, but are indeed Wolves, Matth. 7.15. Therefore meer Reformation is not Regeneration. Thou mayst forsake many sins whilest thou lovest them, and perform many duties that thou lo∣vest not, but loathest. Herod was a Reformer, he did many good things, Mark 6.20. but he was not a New Man.

Fourthly, Thou mayst have much spiri∣tual joy, and yet be still an unregenerate man. Herod heard John preach with gladness, Mark 6.20. The stony-ground hearers had joy for a time, in the good ways of God, Mat. 13.20. Thou mayst have many tasts of the good Word of God, and the Powers of the World to come, Hebr. 6.4, 5. yea, thou mayst have such tasts of the Heavenly Gift, as to raise thy Soul to delight in drawing nigh to God in his Ordinan∣ces of Divine Worship, and continue in thy unregenerate state, Isa. 58.2.

Fifthly, Thou mayst believe the truths of the Gospel, and on the Lord Jesus Christ, and yet be in an unregenerate state and con∣dition. Simon Magus believed, when in the gall of bitterness, and bond of iniquity, Act. 8.13.23. The rockie hearers did believe a while, but were afterward Apostates, Luk. 8.13. Christ his hearers are said to believe on him, Joh. 8.30.

yet in verse 44. he calls them the children of the Devil; Ye are (says he) of your Father the Devil, and his works ye will do. The Hypo∣crites mentioned in Psal. 106.12, 13, 14. were said to believe; and so may you have Faith, and believe, and yet be Hypocrites still. You may think you do believe aright unto Salvation, when in truth you do not, but delude your own Souls.

Sixthly, Thou mayst be much in hearing and praying, and yet be an unregenerate man. Herod was a hearer of John, Mark 6.20. Hypocrites in Ezekiel, were great hearers of him, and he was to them as a very lovely Song, Ezek. 33.30, 31, 32. The three bad grounds were all hearers of the Gospel, Matth. 13.18-22. but not a good hearer amongst them; they were all stark naught, and so mayst thou be also, who art a great hearer of good men; and then for praying, or rather saying of pray∣ers, thou mayst pray often and long, and yet be an hypocrite, and an unregenerate man; yea, thou mayst have the gift of prayer, and yet be a graceless man. The Scribes and Pha∣risees made many and long prayers, Matth. 23.14. So the hypocrites we read of in Job, Chap. 27.8.10. Many make such prayers as God abhors, and will not hear, Isa. 1.14, 15.

Seventhly, Thou mayst be very strict, and very severe in fasting and afflicting thy self, and yet be an unregenerate man. The Scribes and Pharisees fasted and afflicted themselves in the height of their hypocrisie, Luke 18.12.

I fast twice in the week: And wherefore have we fasted and afflicted our souls, say the hypocrites in Isa. 58.3. and the like they did in Baby∣lon, Zach. 7.5, 6.

Eighthly, Thou mayst be a charitable man; I mean, thou mayst give much Alms to the poor, and yet be an unregenerate man. The Scribes and Pharisees did so, Mat. 6.1, 2. Luk. 18.12.

Ninthly, Thou mayst be a zealous man for, and in Religion, and yet be in an unre∣generate state. Paul was so before his Rege∣neration, Act. 22.3. Gal. 1.14. The Jews had a zeal for God, when in their blindness and hard∣ness of heart, Rom. 10.2. Thou mayst be of a warm zealous spirit, even whilest thou hast a carnal unregenerate heart.

Tenthly, Thou mayst have much Integri∣ty, and do many good things uprightly, or without designed guile or fraud towards God and men; Abimelech did so, with respect to Abraham and Sarah, Gen. 20.5. to which God gave his testimony, (namely) that it was so indeed, verse 6. Paul, while unregenerate, had a great deal of Moral Integrity; I have (says he) walked in all good Conscience before God until this day, Acts 23.1. (Mark it) I have walked in all good Conscience before God; he speaks of his carriages towards God in his uncon∣verted state. To the same purpose he speaks of himself in Acts 26.4, 5, 9. But when he declares his sincerity and integrity in walk∣ing before God in his Regenerate State, he

gives us another account of it, 2 Cor. 1.12. For our rejoycing is this, the testimony of our Con∣science; that in simplicity and godly sincerity, or as the Greek word reads it (〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉) that in, or with the simplicity and sincerity of God, we have had our Con∣versation; and also by (says he) the Grace of God, to distinguish his Evangelical and gra∣cious integrity, from his moral and old sin∣cerity or integrity he had whilest a Pharisee, and in an unregenerate condition: And Paul further tells us in Phil. 3.6. that concerning the Law, he was blameless; that is, he did act and walk according to his Knowledge and Con∣science.

These seeming Graces, and good works, look like Regeneration, special Grace, and real good works, but in truth they are not so. These are commonly taken for such, and men conclude that they are Regenerate, and in a happy condition, because they find such things as these in and by themselves; but assuredly, such good things may be in you, and done by you in your unregenerate states, yea, you may fear God, and love God, and be (in many things) conscientious men; you may love the People of God, desire their So∣ciety, and wish your Souls in their conditi∣on, and yet be unregenerate men; you may be meek, humble, useful, and desirable men, and be taken and accepted, respected and ho∣noured by, and of the best of men, as good and holy men, and all that while be in the

gall of bitterness, and bond of iniquity; therefore it nearly concerns you to be seri∣ous and diligent in examining and trying your selves, whether or no you be such as you seem to be, lest you continue to seem to be what you are not, and so delude men, and deceive your own Souls; harden your selves in a presumptious confidence, and flat∣ter your selves to everlasting destruction. I could have presented you with many other things that look like Regeneration, but I may speak something more of this matter, when I shall characterize Regenerate persons, or open Regeneration on another Head.

2. But I shall now give you a fuller expli∣cation of the great work of Regeneration; the word is 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, and signifies a new or second state. This is a compound word of 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, again, and 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, Generation: So Rege∣neration is a New Birth; or as Peter expresses it, a being born again, 1 Pet. 1.23. The word is used in Tit. 3.5. and in Matth. 19.28. In Titus it is meant of the first Regeneration, or change of state here; but in Matthew, it may import the state of Grace here, and Glory hereafter. The words in the Text, and in 1 Pet. 1.23. which are rendred born again, are of the same import, and signifie the same thing, or work of God on men; and so do those expressions of begetting, 1 Pet. 1.3. Jam. 1.18. Indeed the work of Regeneration is variously expressed, and set out in Scripture by many significant and divers words and

phrases; to shew us, that it is a great and glorious work of God on sinners, to com∣mend it the more to our consideration and acceptance, to explain and make it the clearer to our understandings, and to quick∣en and perswade us to seek after it in good earnest, to esteem and value it, and to move Regenerate persons to much thankfulness for it, and to provoke to walk worthy of it; to convince men that it is too great a work for them to do, that they are beholding to Free Grace and Omnipotent Power for it, and to lay them low, and make them vile in their own eyes. Now Regeneration is exprest and set out to us in the Gospel, sometimes by re∣newing us, Col. 3.10. Heb. 6.6. sometimes by making us partakers of the Divine Nature, 2 Pet. 1.4. and stamping the Image of God on us, Col. 3.10. Eph. 4. sometimes 'tis expressed by Gods writing his Law in our hearts, Jer. 31.33. Heb. 10.16. and by circumcising hearts, Deut. 30.6. sometimes by shedding abroad his love, and putting his fear into them, Rom. 5.5. Jer. 32.39, 40. as also by quickning the dead, Eph. 2.1.5. Joh. 5.21.25. sometimes by Creation, or creating them in Christ Jesus unto good works, Eph. 2.10. Col. 2.10. sometimes by putting off the old man, and putting on the new, Col. 2.9, 10. Eph. 4.22, 23, 24. sometimes by tran∣slation, or by translating us from death to life, 1 Joh. 3.14. and out of darkness into the King∣dom of Christ, Col. 1.13. sometimes by opening blind eyes, and turning men from darkness to light,

and from the power of Satan unto God, Acts 26.18. sometimes by Gods working us to will and do, Phil. 2.13. and working us for this self-same thing, 2 Cor. 5.5. that is, preparing us for another world; and sometimes by calling us by his Grace, Gal. 1.6. to be Saints; to holiness, 1 Pet. 1.14. and to newness of life. Regeneration is held forth to us by such expressions, and works of God in and upon us; it includes all these, and several other mentioned in Scripture. But I have more to say for the unfolding and clearing this great truth to you, who desire to learn.

First, Regeneration, Renovation, or the New Birth, is made up of all and every Grace of Christ: I mean the seeds and first fruits of all Grace, Christ imparts and infuses a mea∣sure of all his Grace in regenerating a man; he opens the Fountain and Treasury of his Grace and Fulness by the hand of the Holy Ghost, he conveys it into our hearts, Joh. 16.13, 14. yea, and the Holy Spirit himself gets into men, and dwells there, Rom. 8.10. as I shewed you before.

Q. What are the Graces of Christ, that consti∣tutes and forms the New Creature, or that makes the great Change?

Answ. First Life. We are all by Nature dead in sins, not only as under the Damning Sen∣tence of the Law, but we are personally dead; that is, as the Body is dead without the Soul and Spirit that animates the Body, so without the Spirit and Grace of Christ,

our Souls, Bodies, and Spirits, are spiritually dead, as being without spiritual life, Eph. 2.1.5. Matth. 8.22. Joh. 5.25. Now when Christ Regenerates a man, he infuses and conveys of his Life into him, and that enlivens the whole man. Hence Christ tells us, that he is the Life, Joh. 14.6. that he came to give Life, Joh. 10.10. that he quickens whom he will, and the dead shall hear his voice, and live, Joh. 5.21.25. And Paul tells us, that our life is hid with Christ in God, Col. 3.4. He is the Fountain of the Water of Life, which he invites men to come and drink, Rev. 22.17. Joh. 7.37. And he tells us further in Joh. 11.25. that he is the Resurrection, and the Life; and that whoso findeth him, findeth life, Pro. 8.35. So that Regene∣ration is a new Life, a Heavenly Life, and the Life of Christ.

Secondly, Light; special and peculiar Light. By Nature we are blind, walk in dark∣ness, and know not whether we go, because darkness hath blinded our eyes; we know neither Christ, nor our selves; there is a Vail before our eyes, so as that we cannot discern spiritual things and matters spiritually; they are all Mysteries unto us, and we cannot see them so as to love, prize, and esteem them more than our lusts, and the things of this world. So the Gospel tells us, that by Na∣ture we are in darkness, Eph. 5.8. Acts. 20.18. and our calling is out of darkness, 1 Pet. 2.9. and the Light (that is Christ) shined in dark∣ness (that is in mens hearts) Joh. 1.5. And

we are told, that men by Nature are not on∣ly in darkness, but that they love it, or to abide in it, Joh. 3.19. Now in Regeneration God causeth light to shine in our hearts, to give us the knowledge of the glory of God in the Face of Jesus Christ, 2 Cor. 4.6. And we are brought out of darkness into marvellous light, 1 Pet. 2.9. and by this light we are enabled to discern heaven∣ly and spiritual things spiritually, 1 Cor. 2.9, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15. Our sin and hypocrisie from God hath brought us into a Dungeon of darkness; and therefore it is absolutely ne∣cessary, that God should give us spiritual light in Regenerating us, to make us teach∣able and tractable to know his will, and do it; for without this Light we cannot know, nor do it aright.

Thirdly, Faith; Christ gives men Faith that they may believe in him, and in God the Father, as he commands them to do, Joh. 14.1. 1 Pet. 1.21. 1 Joh. 8.23. Joh. 6.22. Men have no Faith, I mean no special and peculiar Faith of their own, whereby they can rightly be∣lieve in Christ unto Salvation, Heb. 10. ult. and therefore they must have it from him, and from him they have it in Regeneration; for he is the Fountain of Faith, as well as of Life and Light. All things are delivered to him of the Father, Matth. 11.27. and it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell, Col. 1.19. that of his fulness men might receive Grace for Grace, Joh. 1.16. Christ commands them to believe in him, and tells them that in so doing

they shall have Eternal Life, Joh. 3.16. and that they may so believe, and obtain Eternal Life, he bestows of his own Faith upon them, which is a part of their New Life, or Rege∣neration. This is a lively Faith, 1 Pet. 1.3. of the Operation of God, Col. 2.12. and it is gi∣ven them in the behalf of Christ, Phil. 1.29. And in Eph. 2.8. 'tis said, not to be of our selves, but the gift of God; and presently sub••oyns, verse 10. that we are Gods workmanship, created (or re∣generated) in Christ Jesus unto good works, whereof believing is the most excellent, Joh. 6.29. And in 1 Pet. 1.3. the Apostle tells us, and blesses God, that he had begotten some Souls to a lively Faith or Hope; which shews that Faith and Hope are part of the New Creati∣on: And the Faith whereby we believe in Christ unto the saving of our Souls, is called the Faith of Christ, Rom. 3.22. Eph. 3.11, 12. The Faith that meer natural men have, it is a dead Faith, Jam. 2.20.26. but the Faith of Christ is a part of the Life of Regeneration. We do not first believe that we may be quick∣ned, and Regenerated, but we are first Re∣generated by the Spirit of Faith, and then we believe with a living, lively, and with a heart∣purifying Faith, Acts 15.9.

Fourthly, Hope: Hope is a Grace of Christ, and a part of our Regeneration, or of the New Creature in us. Hence Regenerate per∣sons are called Children of Hope, 1 Joh. 3.3. and in Col. 1.27. it is said, that Christ is in them the Hope of Glory. Unregenerate men are said to

be without hope, while they are without God in the world, Eph. 2.12. and when they are savingly called, or Regenerated, they are said to be called in Hope, Eph. 1.18. and all belie∣vers are called in one Hope, Eph. 4.4. that is, all have the same grace of Hope given them in their calling; and in 1 Pet. 1.3. (before∣named) they are said to be begotten again to a lively Hope, by the Resurrection of Christ from the dead.

Fifthly, Love: Love is another Grace, gi∣ven from the God of all Grace in Regenera∣tion. Such as loved not God before, above the Creature, are enabled by Regenerating Love, to love him mostly, heartily, obedi∣ently, and constantly. This Love is shed a∣broad into the heart by the Holy Ghost, Rom. 5.5. and God is said to give it to men by circumcising; that is, by regenerating their hearts, Deut. 30.6. This is one of the Laws that God promises to write in their hearts, Jer. 31.33. God requires men to love him with all their hearts, minds, and strength, Matth. 22.37. and that they may so do, he Regenerates them; that is, he gives them Regenerating Love; and this Grace helps to compleat the work of Regeneration in us. This Love is a Beam, a drop of that Love wherewith he loves his E∣lect, and therewith Regenerate persons love God again with the same love that he loves them; it is the same for kind, though not of the same degree; so that he who loves not God with all his heart, is not Regene∣rate;

but he that doth, is certainly Regene∣rated.

Sixthly, Fear: Men have cast off the fear of God, and fear not to offend him; but God will be feared by men, and requires them to do it all the day long, Pro. 23.17. Men in∣deed are naturally afraid of Gods Judgments, when they see or seel them, but they are not afraid of provoking God by their diso∣bedience and rebellion; men have cast the fear of God behind their backs, but God will have some hearers of him; and therefore he puts it into their hearts, Jer. 32.39, 40. that with his Grace of holy fear, they may indeed stand in awe of him, and sin not, Psal. 4.4. There are no men in the world that fear God aright, but Regenerate persons; and the fear of God be∣ing a part of their Regeneration, they do from the day of their New Birth begin to fear him, and ever after they are called Fearers of God, Psal. 115. The Eye and Com∣mands of God keep them in awe; God hath put fear into men and beasts, to be a means to cause them to preserve themselves, and to keep them from hurting one another: So in Regeneration God puts his holy spiritual fear into their hearts, that they may not sin against God, or wrong their own Souls. God hath promised to cause men to fear him, not so much for his Judgments, as for his Mercy and Co••dness, Hos. 3.5. and this fear he put in∣to the Body of Regeneration, without which it will be imperfect.

Seventhly, Humility, Meekness: These Gra∣ces (if they are two) are parts of the New Creature; they are the Beauty and Ornament of the New Creature, without which it would not be so amiable and lovely as now it is. We are by Nature exceeding proud, rug∣ged, haughty, sowre, and pievish Creatures, but God loves a meek and humble spirit; and therefore he Regenerates some with Humili∣ty and Meekness, and the more men have of these, the more lovely they are to God and men, the more conformable to Christ, who was meek and lowly in heart, Matth. 11.29. Christ will have all his Members like him∣self; the Body must be like the Head; and Christ becoming their Head in Regeneration, he bestows on them his Humility and Meek∣ness, which is a part of that fulness of Grace he hath received for his Members. Meekness is one of the glorious fruits of the Spirit, Gal. 5.22. and one of the Graces of Christ, Jam. 4.6. By Humility and Meekness Christ prepares and capacitates men for his service, and com∣munion with himself; to bow and bend them to his holy will, and make them obedient unto him in all things; for only the Humble and Meek are such persons and walkers.

Eighthly, Zeal: Regeneration makes men zealous against sin, and for God, and godli∣ness. Before Regeneration men may have a zeal for God, but not the Zeal; it is not accord∣ing to knowledge, Rom. 10.2. True Gospel-zeal is a glorious Grace of Christ infused into

men in Regeneration, and that in pursuance of one of the great ends of Christ his death, Tit. 2.14. He gave himself to redeem us from all iniquity, and to make us a peculiar people, zealous of good works. Before men are Regenerated, they are zealous for their own gain, honour, pleasure, and superstition; but Regeneration makes them zealous for God, with the Zeal of God. As soon as Paul was converted, he shewed himself a true and great Zealot in∣deed for Christ, Grace, Holiness, and the Souls of men. It is holy Gospel-zeal that makes men active for God, and puts them for∣ward to follow their Light. Light in the Head, without Zeal in the Heart, may fill men with notions of duty, but never make them Practitioners of duty; they may know the Will of God, but they will not, they can∣not be perswaded to do it: 'tis true, that Zeal without knowledge is not good, and as true, that knowledge without zeal is unpro∣fitable; Christ hath a fulness of zeal for men, and in Regeneration he imparts it to them.

Ninthly, Prayer: In Regeneration Christ infuses the Grace and Spirit of Prayer; as soon as Paul was Regenerated, behold he pray∣eth, Acts 9.11. He had often prayed before, for he was a zealous Pharisee, and concerning the Law he was blameless, Phil. 3.6. but he ne∣ver prayed aright until he was Regenerated, for then Christ gave him the grace of Prayer; he could then pray with Grace in his heart, and then, not till then, behold he prayeth.

There are none can pray spiritually but New Creatures, for the voice of Nature is the voice of the flesh, and what is of the flesh is flesh, Joh. 3.6. and that voice God is not pleased with, and heareth not; but it is the voice of the New Creature, which is form∣ed and made up of the Grace and Spirit of Christ, that God heareth and delighteth in, Pro. 15.8. Therefore God promiseth to give un∣to men (in Regeneration) the Spirit of Grace and Supplication, Zach. 12.10. that they may thereby be enabled to pray unto God holily and acceptably, 1 Pet. 2.5. Rom. 8.26, 27. God is a Spirit, and will be worshipped in spirit and truth, Joh. 4.23, 24. and therefore he spirits them in Regeneration so to do. Men may speak great and good words, and make plau∣sible and seemingly good prayers from light in their heads, and other common spiritual gifts, without Regeneration, but they are but fleshly, cold, dead, and loathsome prayers, because they proceed not from a Divine Root and Spring; they are dead, their hearts are dead, and therefore their prayers must needs be dead prayers, which the Living God ab∣hors, Isa. 1. But now Regeneration opens their hearts and tongues, enlivens and quick∣ens them, puts a heavenly Principle into them, so that now they can speak to God with new tongues and hearts; now they can pray in Faith and Hope, with spiritual and lively affections, and in obedience to the Will of God.

Tenthly, Self-denial: Men are by Nature altogether selfish, they are wholly devoted to the service of the flesh, and set upon ful∣filling the desires of the flesh, and of the mind, Eph. 2.3. Rom. 8.5. Phil. 3.19. But God lays in Self-denying grace on their hearts in Re∣generation; so that now they can deny them∣selves of their ease, pleasures, profits, opini∣ons, relations, peace, and all their once belo∣ved Interests whatsoever, for God, Holiness, Truth, and the welfare of their own Souls. They can, and that upon choice, displease themselves, to please God; they can willing∣ly be nothing, that Christ may be all in all things, Col. 3.11. yea, they would be the Footstool of Christ to exalt him, and set him on the Throne. Regeneration makes them account their all too little for him, as before they accounted a little too much for Christ. This is the great term on which we receive and believe in the Lord Jesus, Mark 8.34. Matth. 16.24. Luk. 9.23. and by Regeneration he gives them power and will to do it, Psal. 110.3. Phil. 2.13. Joh. 6.44, 45. This Regenerati∣on wrought in Paul, Gal. 1.16. I consulted not with flesh and blood (says he) that is, as soon as he was Regenerated, Christ sent him to preach the Faith which before he had zealously de∣stroyed, vers. 23. and that amongst the barba∣rous Heathens, where was much danger, and in the doing of which he should meet with many difficulties, (as he did) yet he immedi∣ately yielded up himself to the Will of Christ,

and laid his own in the dust. So when Christ called Peter and Andrew, they straightway left all and followed him, Matth. 4.18, 19, 20. and after ward Matthew did the like; he presently left his gainful Trade at the Custom-House, and fol∣lowed Christ, Matth. 9.9. So the Disciples tell Christ, Luke 18. that they had left all, and fol∣lowed him; and the grace of Self-denial is gi∣ven to all Regenerate persons in the very mo∣ment of their Regeneration.

Eleventhly, Sincerity: This is the general grace, or that which is the Salt that seasons and makes (as it were) all other grace good and singular. Gospel-sincerity is the holy spiri∣tual Leven, that runs through the whole Lump, or Body of the graces of Christ given in Regeneration; it is not properly one sin∣gle grace, but it is rather the grace of all o∣ther graces; 'tis that which makes the speci∣fical difference between common and peculi∣ar grace, that makes a man to be what he seems to be; it makes and really qualifies a man, a truly godly and gracious man; it makes the heart, face, and tongue of a man the same towards God and men; it makes a man entire, and wholly for God, Christ and Holi∣ness, according to his holy profession; it brings up, and musters all graces, sets them in their places, and directs them all unto God in duties, and to those holy ends for which he hath appointed them to be performed. Go∣spel-sincerity is a special gift of God bestowed on men in Regeneration, 2 Cor. 1.12. that in

the simplicity and sincerity of God we have had our Conversation among you, (says Paul;) and he tells the Colosians, that they had heard and known the Grace of God in truth, Col. 1.6. Gospel-sincerity hath all grace in the Womb of it; by it the Holy Ghost makes men a peculiar people unto God, qualifies and fits them for all spiritual and holy imployments, and Religious Exercises, for acceptance and Com∣munion with God. This is it that makes men lovely, and desirable to God and man, that makes them true and faithful to God, that draws forth and ingages their hearts to God, and causes them to yield up their wills to the Will of God. Without Gospel-sincerity men are but whited Sepulchres, and like the Apples of Sodom, beautiful without, but rotten and a∣bominable within. Mens Religion, I mean their profession of it, without Gospel-since∣rity, is vain and unsavoury. Gospel-sincerity is that which makes us like God, Jer. 22.41. and that which spiritualizes and persumes all our duties. All our duties must be done, and profession of godliness made in Gospel-sincerity, or God will abhor both us and them, Joshua 24.14. Heb. 10.22. Joh. 4.23, 24. Isai. 1. Therefore that God may have some to serve him in Spirit and Truth, he Regenerates them, and makes them New Creatures, by putting his own Nature, and stamping his own Image into, and upon them, and so they are made holy and sincere, in measure, like unto himself. This is another glorious part

of Regeneration. These are some, and but some of the graces of Christ, that makes forms, and constitutes the Heavenly Babe, the New Creature. There are many other graces of Christ given to men in their Regeneration, to make a compleat New Creature; as Joy, Temperance, Patience, and several other, which I shall not now insist on, nor mention, be∣cause I have many other Truths to open to you on this Subject. Let me then advise you, who think you are Regenerated, to examine and try your selves, if you can find indeed these graces of Christ in you; and if you you can, and do find them in you really, you may be sure that all other graces (that have not been mentioned) are in you, and that you are in a state of Regeneration; but if there be none of these graces in you, then you are in an unregenerate state and condi∣tion.

Q. What have you further to say and declare of Regeneration?

Answ. I say, that the Holy Ghost gets in∣to a man when he Regenerates him, and brings in all the Graces of Christ with him, Joh. 16.7, 8, 13, 14. as was shewed before, Rom, 8.9, 10, 11. And Christ is said to be in Regenerate men by his Spirit and graces, 2 Cor. 5.17. and by regenerating them, he works in them new principles, habits, dispositions, and ends, and he sets up in their hearts and souls new Laws, namely, his own, to direct and guide them, to rule and order them; All things are

become new in him, and to him, that is Rege∣nerated, 2 Cor. 5.17.

1 There are new, that is, divine and heavenly Principles in him; there is Divine Light to see withal, and New Life to walk withal, in the ways of God; there is Love to move and in∣cline his heart to his duty, Life to quicken, and Light to direct and guide him: so that his duties proceed from his new Principles of Light, Life, Faith, and Love. All things are become new in him.

2 New Habits. His new Principles are be∣come fixed, stated habits in his Soul; he doth not move and act in the things of God by Forreign causes, and external motives only, as he did before Regeneration, but he acts and brings forth fruit from a stock of grace in his heart. In Matth. 12.35. Christ tells us, that a good man, out of the good t••easure of the heart, bringeth forth good things; that is, from a gracious fixed habit. His good works do naturally flow from him; he is fixed and re∣solved at all times, to do and comply with the Will of God, in all states and condit••ons whatsoever, not only when he hears or feels some stirring word, or provoking judgment, to quicken and irritate him, but also at other times, when none of these things do occur. Thus we find David and Paul, Psal. 57.7. Psal. 119. Acts 20.24. Acts 2. All things are new.

3 New dispositions. Regeneration disposes us to every good word and work; it is an ha∣bitual disposition, though it be sometimes

stronger, sometimes weaker, yet they do ge∣nuinely mind and will God, their duty, and eternal happiness, Rom. 7.18. For to will (says he) is present with ••ne, but how to do it he knew not. And the same Apostle shews us, that 'tis so with all good men, Gal. 5.17. and they are said to be spiritually minded, Rom. 8.5, 6. that is, the bent, inclination, desire and intention of their hearts were so. Thus Regenerate men are said to be ready to every good work, Acts 17.11. Tit. 3 1. 2 Cor. 8.11. Rom. 1.15. Regeneration disposes them to pray in secret, Acts 9.11. to hear and learn the Will of God, Acts 17.11. so to be delivered from all sin, Rom. 7.24. to perfect holiness, Phil. 3.13, 14. and as these, so all other things and duties what∣soever. It is true, that the carnal spirit in Regenerate persons, doth greatly oppose and draw them backward, but yet that hinders not their holy dispositions and inclinations, but they will breathe and operate in them, with a notwithstanding, as good men do ex∣perience. And indeed, this is one of Gods great and holy ends in regenerating men, namely, to move and incline their hearts unto himself, and his holy will, that they may move, will, aed act freely, by his Life and Power within them; that their habitual in∣clinations and dispositions may be suited to his will, and the things above, and that his external motives may sweetly and freely draw, and not force and drive them to him∣self, and their duty. Hence the Spouse prays

Christ to draw her, and she will run after him, Cant. 1.4. shewing thereby which way she was disposed and bent.

4 New ends and designs. All things are be∣come new with regenerate persons, and there∣fore needs they must have new ends and de∣signs in their eyes, and hearts; in their wills, understandings, judgments, minds, and affe∣ctions; as their ends and designs in things before Regeneration were base, low, and sor∣did, so now in a Regenerate state they are high, noble, and honourable: They were wont to make the Lusts of the flesh, of the eye, and the pride of life, the mark they shot at, and the point, scope, and end of all their projects, contrivements, and endeavours; but Rege∣neration hath sublimated and heightned their spirits, caused them to see, and carry on more worthy and glorious designs and ends; their hearts are in measure suited to the Com∣mands of God, and the end of Christ his. Death. This the Apostle notably declares, 2 Cor. 5.15. and that he died for all, that they that live, (that is, that are Regenerated, and begotten again to a lively hope) should not henceforth live unto themselves, (but to whom then?) why, to him who died for them, and rose again. They are now partakers of the Divine Nature, and are of a heavenly descent; they are the spiritually natural and adopted Sons and Daughters of God, the Off-spring and Royal Issue of the King of Kings, and Lord of Lords; and therefore they must needs

have aims, ends, and designs in their eyes and hearts, according to their new Nature, and Royal Spirits. Now their Hearts and Souls are bent and set to live in the Court, in the presence of the King, to wait on, and do ho∣mage to him, to honour, serve, and please him; to keep his favour, and smiles of his countenance; to know his pleasure, and yield him free and chearful obedience thereunto; to inrich themselves with his graces and Spi∣rit, and prepare themselves for full and ever∣lasting Communion with himself. Now they desire to hold up his Interest and Concerns in the world, to inlarge and augment his Kingdom, and to have their light so to shine in the world before men, as that they may see their good works, and be induced to glorifie God, Matth. 5.16. These, and such like glo∣rious ends and designs, are in the New Crea∣tures eye; but to live, project, and contrive, to get and keep worldly riches, honours, pleasures, beauty, and a great name, are things far beneath the Noble and excellent nature and spirit of the New Creature; it is of a Christ-like Spirit and Nature, and there∣fore it must of necessity have and design the same ends he doth; Their old ends are passed away, and new take place.

5 New Rules, or Laws. Regeneration brings into a man, and puts him under new Laws, Orders, and Rules; All things are become new. Before Regeneration they were ruled and go∣verned by the will of the Flesh, the counsels

of the Flesh, the suggestions of Satan, and examples of carnal men, and accordingly they walked and steered their course, blest them∣selves in so doing, promising peace and feli∣city to themselves in those ways of their own hearts, Isa. 66.3. 1 Thes. 5.3. But Regenera∣tion puts into them, and brings them under the Laws and Orders of Jesus Christ, and the Kingdom into which they are translated, Col. 1.3. The Laws written in the Gospel, are by Regeneration written with the Finger of the Holy Ghost in their hearts; so that now they have (as it were) two Bibles, or Books of Laws, the one in their hand, the other in their hearts, Jer. 31.33. Jer. 32.40. Heb. 8.10, 11. Heb. 10.16. By these Laws and Rules, they desire, chuse, and endeavour to walk un∣der them, to live and be subject to them, and to none else. The New Creature knows no other Lord, Laws, or Law-giver, over it's Soul and Conscience, but Christ; it freely yields up its self to all chearful obedience to all his Laws, and accounts it his happiness to walk by his Rules; he honours them, and is thankful for them.

These are his Laws upon choice, and his o∣bedience to them he esteems as a great privi∣ledge and honour, Deut. 4.8. He would not vary from them, but have them continually before him, in his eye, heart, and hand; he makes them his delights and Councellours, and they are the joy and rejoycing of his heart, as Da∣vid and Jeremy experienced. When they vary

from them, or in any thing transgress them, they are afflicted; and when they conform to them, they rejoyce.

Q. You said before, that Regeneration signifies a change of state, or a second state; pray shew what is meant by a second, or new state, that Rege∣neration puts men into?

Answ. I have shewed you already, that Re∣generation puts men into a new state of life; it translates and raises them from spiritual death, to spiritual life, from darkness to light, &c. by the infusion of the Spirit, Light, and Life of Christ: And several things have al∣ready been discoursed on, which may not here be mentioned, but shall refer you to what hath been said before. Here I shall add, secondly, that Regeneration transplants men out of the old Adam into the new; it takes them from the old stock, and grafts them in∣to the new, out of the Earthy man, and puts them into the Heavenly, 1 Cor. 15. By Regene∣ration they are actually put into Christ, and Christ into them; they are taken out of the Kingdom of Satan, and put into the King∣dom of Christ, as these Scriptures shew, Rom. 8.9, 10. 2 Cor. 5.17. 2 Cor. 13.5. Col. 1.13. Acts 26.18. Joh. 18.36. Men are first put in∣to Christ by Election, they are said to be cho∣sen in Christ, Eph. 1.4. and that before the Foun∣dation of the World; and they were united to Christ in his Incarnation, when he took up our Nature into a Personal Union with the Divine; but in Regeneration, we are fully

and compleatly, actually and personally uni∣ted to Christ, with our own choise, and free consent; so that here is a great change in∣deed. Regenerate persons are set into a new and living stock, which will yield sufficient sap and nourishment to such grafts. I am the Vine, (says Christ) ye are the Branches, Joh. 15.5. And hence it is that they bear much fruit unto Eternal Life, after Regeneration, Joh. 15.5. Joh. 4.36. By Regeneration we are made Subjects of his Kingdom, and living Members of his Body, 1 Cor. 6.15. Eph. 1. ult. Eph. 5.30. They are now of another King∣dom, and Corporation, of another Root, Stock, and Body, of another Family and Houshold, Eph. 2.19, 20.

Thirdly, Regeneration puts men into a state of liberty and freedom. In their unrege∣nerate state, they are in bondage, in prison, and slavery to their Lusts, Rom. 6.17. to Satan, 2 Tim. 2. ult. Eph. 2.2. They are also in bon∣dage under the Law, and enjoyned to keep e∣very tittle of it, on pain of Eternal Death, Gal. 3.10. Rom. 6.14. They are also by Na∣ture Children of wrath, as they are sinners and transgressors of the Law, Eph. 2.3. And they are, as sinners, under the damning Sentence of the Law, Joh. 3.18. Moreover, the Scripture tells us, that all men, while in their unrege∣nerate states, are Prisoners, Isa. 61.1. and Pri∣soners in the Pit, Zach. 9.11. This, and much more, is their misery and bondage, thraldom and slavery, while in their state of sin; but

now Regeneration sets them at liberty and freedom, Gal. 5.1.13. Christ hath by his Death purchased their freedom and liberty, Tit. 2.14. but it is made theirs by, or in Re∣generation. Then he opens the Prison doors, Isa. 61.1. turns the Devil out of his Throne, Luke 11.21, 22. breaks off their bonds, and brings them out, sets them at liberty, and lets them go free, and all by virtue of his blood, in pursuance of the Covenant, Zach. 9.11. Now they are said to be free from sin, and become the servants of God, Rom. 6.22. and the wicked one toucheth them not, 1 Joh. 5.18. In Regeneration Christ leads Captivity captive, Eph. 4.8. It is a great, real, and Everlasting Freedom that men have in Regeneration; they shall no more return into Captivity: If therefore the Son shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed, Joh. 8.36. Hence they are ever after Regeneration called the Lords Free-men, 1 Cor. 7.22. for by Regeneration they are put into the state of liberty, not upon conditi∣on, or for a time, but for ever. They are free from the Ruledom of Sin and Satan, from the Law of sin and death, by the Law of the Spirit of Life, Rom. 8.2. By Regeneration they are made free to, and for God and Holiness, to serve him without fear, in righteousness and holi∣ness, all their days, Rom. 6.22. Luke 1.74, 75. So that now they have nothing else to do or mind, but how, as Free-men, to walk wor∣thy of their new state, to live unto God, and bear fruit to his praise and glory; for they

are now in a secure state of freedom and li∣berty, and need not fear the loss of it.

Fourthly, By Regeneration we are put in∣to a state of Relation to God the Father, and Jesus Christ the Son. In our unregenerate states we are the Children of the Devil, Joh. 8.44. are his subjects and servants, and also the ser∣vants of sin, Rom. 6.17, 18. and then we stood in no special Relations to Christ: For when we are made free from sin by Regeneration, then, and not till then, we become the Lords servants, Rom. 6.22. God is indeed related to us, as our Creator, and we are related to him, as we are his Creatures; but this is no speci∣al Relation, for the Devils are so related to God: But Regeneration puts us into several special Relations. (1.) Into a Conjugal Relati∣on. Christ is Married to them, and they to him, 2 Cor. 11.2. Cant. 2.16. Christ is their Husband, and they are his Wife, as the Song of Solomon shews. (2.) God is their Father, and they are his Children, not as by the first Creation, but by Regeneration, Joh. 1.12. 2 Cor. 6. ult. Isa. 9 6. Heb. 2. (3.) Christ is their Head, and they are his Members, Eph. 5.30. (4.) Christ is their Lord and King, and they are his Subjects and Servanti, Col. 2.6. Rom. 6.16.22. Psal. 2.6. (5.) Christ is their Shepherd, and they are his Sheep, Joh. 10.11.14.27. (6.) Christ is their Prophet, and they are his Scholars, Acts 3.22, 23. These are some of the near Relations that Regenerate persons stand in to Christ, and they are in∣stated

in them by Regeneration; for then they are contracted to Christ: I have (says Paul) espoused you to Christ, 2 Cor. 11.2. name∣ly, by the means of his Preaching to them; and so they are made Sons and Daughters, Gal. 4.5.

Fifthly, In Regeneration men are put into a state of Righteousness and Justification; not that they are Justified by Inherent Grace, or because they are Regenerated, but that God doth by Regenerating them, enable them to take hold of Christ, and believe in him unto Ju∣stification of Life, Rom. 5.18. Rom. 3.22.25. So also, for that God doth actually and per∣sonally justifie men, when he Regenerates and makes them New Creatures. Before Rege∣neration men are in a guilty state; they are in an unrighteous, and (as such) in a con∣demned state and condition; but by the means of Regeneration they are enabled to believe, receive, and apply the Righteousness of Christ unto themselves; and they can go to God the Father, and take out his Acquit∣tances, and promised Discharges, Pardons, and Acceptance, bring home, and apply all unto themselves; and so God accepts them, ac∣quits and forgives them, discharges them of, and justifies them from and against all Crimes, Accusations, and Indictments whatsoever and puts them into a Justified state, or into a state of Righteousness and Justification, upon their believing in him, with the Faith given them in and by their Regeneration, Rom. 8.33,

34. 2 Cor. 5. ult. Rom. 3.24.26. 1 Cor. 1.30.

Sixthly, Regeneration puts men into a state of Friendship with God. By Nature we are all Enemies to him, and God seems to be, and to carry himself towards us as an E∣nemy, Rom. 5.10. Isa. 63.10. yea, we are by Nature worse, and more than Enemies, for being in Friendship with the World, we are at Enmity with God, Jam. 4.4. But Regenera∣tion makes a great change, for it makes us Friends to God, and God carries himself Friendly towards us: The old Enmity is turned into a sweet, real, and comfortable Friendship. God carries himself Friendly, and as a Cordial and great Friend to us, and so do we (in measure) unto him; we have his Heart opened to us in love and kindness, and ours are opened unto him in duty, love, and obedience. There is a great kindness, familiarity, and communication, between God and Regenerate persons, and they do greatly delight in one anothers company, Isa. 62.4. Isa. 58. ult. Pro. 15.8. This Friend∣ship between God and New Creatures, is a re∣al, not feigned Friendship; it is a heart-en∣dearing, and Soul-knitting Friendship; it is a pleasant and delightful Friendship; it is a sure and well-grounded Friendship, and it is a constant and perpetual Friendship; it is such a knitting and fast Friendship, as that neither Sip or Satan can possibly desolve. In, and ever after Regeneration, God calls his

New Creatures his Friends, Luke 12.4. Joh. 15.13, 14. Isa. 41.8. Jam. 2.23. and God and them declare themselves true and choice Friends indeed to each other, by their love, and loving one another at all times, which is the property of a true Friend, Pro. 17.17.

Seventhly and lastly, They are by Regene∣ration put into a state of Grace. By Nature men are not only sinful, but they are in a state of sin and death; they are dead in sin, and sold under sin; yea, they are altogether sin, Eph. 2.1. Rom. 3.10-20. As their services to God are, so are they; they are iniquity, Isa. 1.13. It is their name, character, and nature, Rom. 5.8. Gal. 2.15. But Regeneration sets men in a state of Grace; for although after Regenera∣tion they have much sin and filthiness in them, yet their state is accounted and call∣ed, and it is really a holy state; and after Regeneration, men are never accounted and call∣ed sinners, but Saints, holy Brethren, the Peo∣ple and Children of God, and the like; for they have their new Names from their new States. As the Apostle speaks to the Ephesi∣ans, Ye are (saith he) no more Strangers and Forreigners, but Fellow-Citizens of the Saints, Eph. 2.19. so it may be said, and that truly, of all Regenerate persons, that they are no more sinners, (although they sin) but holy and beloved, Col. 3.12. It is, and may be call∣ed a state of Grace, on many accounts; I'le name a few, and so dismiss this Head. (1.) Be∣cause they are ingrafted into Christ, who is

their Root, Revel. 22.16. the Stock and Vine in whom they are set by Regeneration, Job. 15.2.5. (2.) Because they are in favour with God; he loves the New Creature with the love of complacency and delight, because it is his very Image and Nature, 2 Pet. 1.4. Col. 3.10. and he hath great favour and kindness for them as such, Tit. 3.4, 5. (3.) Because they are under the Conduct and Power of Grace: For as before sin reigned unto death, in, and over them; so now the Grace of Christ reigns through righteousness unto Eternal Life, Rom. 5. ult. (4.) Because of their Relation to God. They were the Children of the Devil, but now the Children of God: So their new Re∣lation puts them into a new State. (5.) Be∣cause of their work and service; their work was to serve sin, Rom. 6. but now to serve God. It is now their only work and business to live unto God in all sincere Gospel-obe∣dience. Holiness is their Aim, Trade, and Principle; 'tis stated in their hearts, mould∣ed and framed there, and expressed in their endeavours. (6.) Because they are in an abi∣ding and lasting state; it is not transient, but their Regeneration shall be perfected in Glo∣rification, Phil. 1 6. Rom. 8.30. Thus you have heard what Regeneration is; I have o∣pened it as plainly as I can unto you, that you may understand it, and make a judgment of your own states, whether you are indeed in a Regenerate state and condition.

CHAP. II. Shewing the absolute necessity of Regeneration.

Q. IS there an absolute necessity of Regenera∣tion?

Answ. Yea, there is an absolute necessity of it: We have it from the Mouth of Christ himself in the Text, and verse 5. Except a man be born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God. And again, Ʋerily, verily, I say unto you, except a man be born of Water, and of the Spirit, he can∣not enter into the Kingdom of God. And in vers. 7. Marvel not that I said unto you, you must be born again. And this great Truth is confirmed, as by the so often repeating, and reiterating of it, so likewise by no less than four Verities, or Asseverations. So that you see there is an ab∣solute necessity of it.

But I shall not leave it so, but further prove and demonstrate this great Truth, that so much, and so nearly concerns us all, by shewing 1. (The necessity of it) from the ends and uses for which men were created, and are re∣generated. 2. From the utter inability and incapa∣city they are in, to obtain or prosecute those holy Ends of God, whilest in their unregene∣rate states. First, let us enquire into the ends and uses of Gods Creations; his first and se∣cond Creating work. 1. Here. 2. Hereafter.

1 God created Man in his own Image, Gen. 1.26,

27. He was pleased to make us glorious and excellent Creatures indeed. God made man upright, Eccl. 7.29. he stampt the im∣pressions of his own Wisdom, Knowledge, Holiness, and Righteousness on us; he made us capable of knowing, trusting, loving, plea∣sing, and enjoying him for ever. God Crea∣ted us with pure and unspotted Natures, with free and holy dispositions and inclinati∣ons, with all abilities of will and power, to will and do that which was good and plea∣sing in his sight; and as such he delighted in us, and was refreshed in our Communion with him, Gen. 1.31. God looked on this No∣ble Piece of his Workmanship, and tells us, it was very good; not only good, as his other works were said to be, Gen. 1.18.21. but (saith God) they are very good. Hence it is that they are said to be Crown'd with Glory and Ho∣nour, Psal. 8.4, 5. Now in allusion and con∣formity to this his first Creating of Man, (the Gospel informs us) is his work in recreating or regenerating him: They are Gods workman∣ship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, Eph. 2.10. renewed in knowledge, after the Image of him that created him, Col. 3.10. Eph. 4.24. San∣ctified to the Lords use, and made partakers of the Divine Nature, 2 Pet. 1.4. Thus the second Greation, or Regeneration, answers to the first, is commensurate to it, (although in some things, afterward to be spoken of, it exceeds it) and is the same with it in kind and degree, in likeness and reality.

Secondly, The ends of both these Creati∣ons are the same; namely, to glorifie God, and enjoy him for ever, Isa. 43.21. This people have I formed for my self, they shall shew forth my praise, 2 Cor. 5.15. That they which live should not hence∣forth live unto themselves, but unto God, 1 Cor. 10.31. Whatever ye do, do all to the glory of God. And as to glorifie him, by living to him, so also to live with him, and enjoy him for ever, 1 Thes. 4.17. Joh. 17.24. 2 Cor. 5.1-6. But more particularly.

1 They were at first created in the Image of God, to hold forth the great and distin∣guishing goodness of God to them, beyond what it was to other Creatures; for the Ex∣cellency and Glory of their Make, and Na∣ture, their state and capacity, loudly pro∣claims the Wisdom, Power, Soveraignty, and Goodness of God to them. All Creatures were as Clay in the hand of the Potter, in his Eye and Hand, to make and form of it what manner of Creatures he pleased, But he was pleased to make and form Man of the dust of the ground, put a reasonable Soul into him, and stamp his own Image of Knowledge, Righteousness, and Holiness upon him, that in this state and condition he might com∣mend and shew forth the transcendent and glorious Excellency of the Maker. Thus Man is said to be the Image and Glory of God, 1 Cor. 11.7. so in Regeneration God declares and holds forth his distinguishing Love, Wis∣dom, Power, and Soveraign Grace, his Holi∣ness,

and Righteousness, by restoring them to their Primitive state, and restamping his Image upon them, after they had wickedly and shamefully defaced, and utterly marr'd it, by their own wicked inventions, Eccl. 7. ult. and that when they were his vile and hateful Enemies, Rom. 5.10. By this work of God on them whom he Regenerates, he holds forth his Soveraign Attributes, especially his Soveraign Love and Power, distinguishing Good∣ness, and the exceeding riches of his Grace, Eph. 2.4, 5. Rom. 9.23, 24. Rom. 11.33. Eph. 1.19, 20. This is one of the glorious ends of God in Regenerating men.

2 That they might trust in, and live upon him. This is a homage which all reasonable Creatures do owe to their Soveraign Creator, namely, to trust him with the keeping of themselves, commit all to him, and relye upon him for all things, 1 Pet. 4. ult. It was one of the Natural Laws that was concrea∣ted with them, and put into their hearts in their first make, to live always in a depen∣dency on their Creator. For although God made Man a perfect Creature, filled him with his Grace, and adorned him with his Image, yet he was but a Creature, and he was al∣ways to live and have his dependency on God for his subsistance, and not to stand and continue in that state, from and by himself, but to depend wholly on him that made him. This he was bound to do, not only in point of prudence, for his own security and

peace, but in point of duty, as that which he was indispensably bound unto by the Law of his Creation. His neglect of his duty in this, occasioned his Dreadful Fall, which ruined him, (I mean Adam) and all his Posterity. The same end doth God Regene∣rate men for, namely, that they may believe in Jesus Christ, and in God the Father by him, Joh. 14.1. 1 Pet. 1.21. that they may trust, commit themselves to him, and live in a constant dependence on him, Isa. 26.4. Psal. 37.3.5. Therefore doth he infuse his Faith into them, when he Regenerates them, Col. 1.12. and writes this Law in their hearts, that they may obey it, Jer. 31.33. Heb. 10.16.

3 They were at first Created to love God, with all their hearts, and chiefest, strongest, and warmest love; that they might esteem and love him as their highest and chiefest good, and singular Object of all their affe∣ctions. This Law of our Creation we have exprest in Matth. 22.37. Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy Heart, and with all thy Soul, and with all thy Mind. So likewise this is Gods End in his second Creation, or Regene∣ration; and therefore doth he circumcise their hearts to love him, Deut. 30.6. writes this Law in their hearts, and sheds it abroad into them, in Re∣generation, Rom. 5.5. that they may love him aright, and that with his own love, without which they cannot do it.

4 The Lord Created Man to fear him, to re∣verence and stand in awe of him, as their great

Soveraign Lord and King. This Law was created with them, and written in their hearts, until sin had defaced and blotted it out. This Law is also written in the Bible, that men may remember what was written in their hearts in their Creation, and know their duty, and one of the ends for which they were Created, how they have lost it, and to provoke them to endeavour the recovery of it. How often have we this Law exprest in Scripture, Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God; thou shalt stand in awe, and sin not, Deut. 6.13.24. Deut. 10.12.20. Psal. 2.11. Psal. 4.4. 1 Pet. 2.17. It is a holy fear, not a perplexing and heart-dis∣quieting fear that is commanded; it is a fear that is not an Adversary to Faith and Love, as the forbidden fear is, but it is useful for us, and helpful to all other Graces. Now in Rege∣neration God puts this fear into our hearts, Jer. 32.39, 40. that we may serve the Lord with reverence, and godly fear, Heb. 12.28. that we may not sin, or depart from God, Jer. 32. I will put my fear into their hearts, and they shall not depart from me. But I must hasten.

5 God Created Man to obey him, and yield him free, loving, and chearful subjection and obedience. He formed them for his Subjects and Children, that they should subject them∣selves unto his Laws and Authority, and yield or give to him the obedience of Sub∣jects to their Soveraign, and of Children to their Creator and Begetter; and accordingly they were Created with the Principle and

Power of obedience; and to this Created Principle God presently added a positive Law, to try and exercise their obedience unto God, Gen. 2.16, 17. But of the Tree of Know∣ledge, thou shalt not eat of it, nor touch it. The Image of God, in which Adam, (and we in him) were Created, was such, as fully ena∣bled him and us, had we kept it, to have yielded all heart and practical obedience un∣to his whole will; he wanted nothing to help him, but he had all Grace in perfection to obey and conform to the whole Will of God, at all times: But Sin rooted the Prin∣ciple and Power of Heart-obedience quite out of us; so that men have now neither will nor power to obey the Will of God, un∣til they are regenerated by Grace. But that God might not loose this End (altogether) for which he created Man, he is pleased, of his meer Grace, to Regenerate and renew some of Mankind, and thereby frame and mould them to such obedience, as he at first intended them for; for men cannot, neither will they obey, until Grace hath restored this old Power and Principle of obedience which they had lost. And therefore he Regenerates and infuses this Power and Principle into men, to make them willing Subjects, and o∣bedient Children, 1 Pet. 1.14. Rom. 6.16, 17, 22. This was Gods End in sending Paul to convert the Gentiles, Rom. 15.18. and this is powerfully effected in men, in and by the work of Regeneration.

6 That they might serve and worship him, ac∣cording to his revealed will. God made men to worship and serve him externally, as well as internally, by loving, fearing him, and the like. Christ mentions this in Matth. 4.10. when the Devil desired external worship from him; It is written, thou shalt worship the Lord thy God. They were created in the Image of God, to serve him with fear, that is, to wor∣ship God, Psal. 2.11. Heb. 12.28. Now God Regenerates men, that they may by his Grace be enabled to do and perform that worship to him, which he at first created them for, and the Law of their Creation enjoyns them to; that is, to worship God in Spirit and Truth, for such (Christ tells us) the Father seeks to worship him, John 4.23, 24. God works them for this self-same thing, (though not only for it) says Paul, 2 Cor. 5.5. Regenera∣tion makes men, together with the help of the Spirit, worship God according to his own Will and appointment, spiritually, ho∣lily, and acceptably through Jesus Christ, Heb. 12.28. 1 Pet. 2.5. Rom. 12.1. But as∣suredly there are not any such Worshippers in the World, but Regenerate persons; for all other men do what they do, in the Wor∣ship of God, without the Grace and Spirit of God; and therefore cannot worship him in Spirit and Truth.

7 God created Man in his own Image, that they might know him; and therefore gave them a sufficient light to see by, and eyes to use

that light; revealed and made known himself unto them, that they might clearly see him, and always have him, and his Will in their eyes. The Image of God was Light and Knowledge, as well as Righteousness and Holiness; and therefore Adam knew, and saw God so far, as a Man was, or in that state could be capable of knowing him; which as it aggravated his sin, so it heightned his hap∣piness while he kept it. The knowledge of God was absolutely necessary to help him (and us in him) to trust, love, fear, and obey him; so likewise to adore and admire him, and to worship and serve him as our God: But the knowledge of God being lost, God hath provided means for the retriving of some, and bringing them to the knowledge of himself again; and this is done by Rege∣neration. Hence they are renewed in knowledge after the Image of him that created them, Col. 3.10. Eph. 4. And Paul saith, God that commanded light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in mens hearts, to give them the knowledge of the Glory of God in the Face of Christ, 2 Cor. 4.6. The ha∣ving of this knowledge, is Life Eternal, Joh. 17.3. For this end God opened Pauls eyes, Acts 22.14. and for this end he opens others eyes also; and until men are Regenerated, they are in darkness, and know not God, nor Christ the Mediator; and therefore regene∣rates men, that they may know both, and whatever else is necessary to be known. Men are like Moles and Bruits without the know∣ledge

of God, Jesus Christ, his Grace and Laws.

8 God Created Man, to make him the Ob∣ject of his Love, Delight, Complacency, and Communion; and therefore made him in his own likeness, Gen. 5.1. beautified him with his own Image and Nature, Gen. 1.27. 2 Pet. 1.4. that thereby he might make him a lovely and suitable Object for those ends. Man was the Flower, Crown, and Quintescence of the whole Creation, not so much because he had a Reasonable Soul, and a more Noble Nature, but because he was created in the Image of God. God puts the Accent on that part of his Workmanship several times, Gen. 1.26, 27.5. 1. Eccl. 7. ult. to which the Apostle alludes, Col. 3.10. This was the Creature that God saw very good, as fitted for these ends, name∣ly, to be the objects of his love and delight, Gen. 1.31. God made them after his own Heart, meet and answerable to his gracious purposes and intentions; but man quickly marr'd and disrobed himself, and thereby made himself utterly uncapable and unwor∣thy of Gods Delight, Complacency, and Communion; so that now God had not a Creature left in the World to delight in, and have Communion withal. But that he might not be altogether destitute of some to take up withal, he chose a certain number, with a design to make them Vessels of Honour, and to prepare them for this his special use, name∣ly, to be his Companions, to solace himself

with them, and rejoyce in them, as with his Friends and Lovers, Zeph. 3.17. Isa. 63.3, 4. The Book of Canticles abundantly declares it. Now this he doth accomplish in and upon them, in and by Regeneration, or making them New Creatures. By Regeneration, God in measure and degree, restores to them what they sinfully lost, by their Rebellion against, and Apostacy from God, and reposes them with, and of his Grace and Nature, which they had deprived themselves of; by which they lost that love, delight, and complacency that God had to, and in them, and that Com∣munion he had with them whilest they kept their integrity, and intended them for, in creating them. I say, God restores to them, and creates in them that which will for ever make them lovely and delightful unto him, by regenerating them; he puts his Grace and Spirit into them, Ezek. 36.25, 26, 27. stamps and impresses his own glorious Nature and Image on them, Col. 3.10. imputes the Righ∣teousness of Christ to them, 2 Cor. 5. ult. and infuses his Holiness into the whole man, and so makes them lovely and beautiful, by the comeliness that he hath of his own put upon them, Ezek. 16.14. Then he loves and de∣lights, then he takes complacency in them, and then he enters into, and holds communi∣on with them with satisfaction, for his own Image and Grace sake, as well as for his own love, and Sons sake, Joh. 13.1. Pro. 8.17. Joh. 14.21.23. Pro. 15.8. Zeph. 3.17. Isa. 63.3, 4.

1 Joh. 1.3. 1 Cor. 1.9. These are some, but not all the Ends of God in regenerating men, which must be obtained in this world. But besides these that concern this life, there are others that concern Christ his coming, and the Eternal states of Gods Elect. A word of these, and I have done with this.

1 The Elect are the Spouses of Christ, by Christs Purchase, and Gods Gift to him, they were given to him, Joh. 6.37. Joh. 10.29. that he might Marry them, and take them in∣to a Conjugal Relation (as you have heard before) in pursuance of Gods Ends in giving them to Christ, he pays a price for them, and purchases them for himself; (for although they are said to be given to Christ, yet he could not get them out of Prison, but by paying their debts, and full ransom, which Divine Justice demanded, 1 Cor. 6.20.) and then comes and requires his own, and con∣tracts, and takes them to himself; and by re∣generating them, he shews himself unto them, and acquaints them with himself, perswades them to consent to his Proposals, and chuse him for their Husband; and so by his Grace in their hearts, they freely, willingly, and chearfully give their consent, and Christ and they do mutually give themselves to each o∣ther, and take each other into a Matrimonial state and resolution. This cannot be done without Regeneration; for men are not a∣dorn'd with a personal loveliness, and made meet for Christ, until they are made parta∣kers

of the Divine Nature, and are beautified with his Image, which makes them meet Companions for him: So they will by no means be perswaded to consent to have him for their Head and Husband, and resign up themselves unto him, until they have their hearts and states changed, by his Spirit and Grace, in Regeneration. And therefore, I say, that Regeneration is absolutely necessa∣ry to bring persons into a Conjugal Relation to Christ.

But yet there is more to be done than what I have yet said, and which I aim at in what I have spoken, namely, that the Con∣tracted Bride is to make her self ready for the great Marriage day, or for the compleatment of the Marriage Solemnities, which shall be at Christ his second Personal coming, when he shall receive his Bride unto himself, and carry her home to his own Royal Palace in State and Glory, John 14.3. Revel. 19.1-8. Matth. 25.31, 32. For this day, and the great Solemnity of it, Christ must have his Bride in a state and practical readiness, to meet her Bridegroom in the Clouds, where he will come with his Attendants in great State, and send his Angels for his Bride to come to him; where he will wait to receive and imbrace her, and then will the Lord make his great Feast, called the Supper of the Lamb, and a Feast of fat things; to which Feast and Marri∣age she must come ready deckt, with all her Ornaments and Wedding Garments, that she

may be suitable unto her Husband. For what hath been said, see these Scriptures, Matth. 25.32, 33, 34. 1 Thes. 4.16, 17. Rev. 19.9.17. Isa. 25.6. Now, I say, the Lord Jesus ex∣horts her, or them, to get and make them∣selves ready for his coming, Matth. 24.44. Luke 12.35, 36. 2 Pet. 3.11, 12. Matth. 25.10, 11, 12, 13, 14. that he may praise and commend her, bless and reward her, Revel. 19.7. Matth. 24.46.

Now this cannot be done without Rege∣neration, for that is their Ornament, Beau∣ty, Honour, and Glory. Without Regenera∣tion they are not fit for Contraction, much less can they make themselves ready for the great Wedding day, and the glorious Solem∣nity and state thereof. The Lord Jesus will have but uncomely, black, and dirty Spouses of us, without Regeneration, notwithstanding our Election.

2 Full and everlasting fruition of, and Commu∣nion with the great and holy God. This is the promised and designed state and portion of all Gods Elect number, and this they are and shall be fitted for by Regeneration. Election is the designing and appointing us to that happiness; Regeneration is the preparing and meeting us for the enjoyment of it. E∣lection is the causes or Spring of Regenera∣tion, and Regeneration is the fruit of Electi∣on; but the fruition and eternal enjoyment of God in Heaven, is the end of both. Men are no more capable of living in the presence

and enjoyment of God, in their state of sin, than Swine are to live in a Kings Palace, or Earthly Bodies in the Sun. Regenerate per∣sons shall meet the Lord in the Air, and for ever be with him, 1 Thes. 4.17. They shall see him as he is, 1 Joh. 3.2. and face to face, as Paul speaks, 1 Cor. 13.12. and they shall live with Christ for evermore, in perfect holiness, joy, and glory, Matth. 25. ult. But this men can∣not do nor obtain without Regeneration. (1.) Because of the unsuitableness of unrege∣nerate mens hearts, unto so glorious a state of holiness, honour, and dignity. (2.) Because God is a holy God. He is glorious in Holi∣ness, yea, Holiness its self, and no uncircum∣cised heart can be admitted into his presence, and men in their unchanged states are an a∣bomination unto him, who is the Fountain of Holiness. (3.) Because it is Gods own Ordinance, which shall stand fast to all Ge∣nerations, namely, that Regeneration shall precede and prepare the way to Glory, and the everlasting fruition and enjoyment of God, John 3.3.5.7. Rom. 8.29, 30. It is Gods filed, stated way with men, that they must have their fruit unto holiness here, be∣fore they can enjoy Communion in Heaven with him hereafter; and it is Regeneration that puts men into a state of holiness here, to qualifie and prepare them for Eternal Glo∣ry, and Communion with the Father and Son in another World.

Thus I have presented you with the first

grand reason or ground of the necessity of Regeneration, namely, the uses and ends God designs men to in their first and second Creation. Now in the second place, I am to shew you the necessity of Regeneration, from the state whereinto Sin hath plunged us, or by shewing our weakness, wilfulness, averse∣ness, and utter inability, to obtain and prose∣cute those holy Ends of God without Re∣generation. Both Scripture and Experience will afford us sufficient proofs of this.

First then, we are in gross and palpable dark∣ness, (as hath been shewed) we are in our sin∣ful state, not only in the dark, but we are in darkness, Eph. 5.8. This is called gross dark∣ness, to shew that it is exceeding great, Isa. 60.2. yea, it is said, that we are full of dark∣ness, and in great darkness, Matth. 6.23. And the god of this World (is said) to bring us into, and keep us in it, 2 Cor. 4.4. It is such a darkness and blindness, as that men know not where they are, what they are, nor where they are going. How then can they answer or prosecute Gods Ends, in Creating them in his own Image, without Regeneration; and therefore they stand in absolute need of Re∣generation, to make them Children of Light, Eph. 5.8. such as the Apostle tells us the Thessalonians were by Regeneration, 1 Thes. 5.5. Men are commanded to walk as Children of Light, 1 Thes. 5.8. which Regenerating Light enables them to do. It is only Regenerating Light and Knowledge that shews men the

way wherein they should walk, and the things that they should believe and do, in order to Eternal Happiness, and without which they stumble, fall, and perish.

2 Let us take a further view of the condi∣tion, and the utter incapacity we are in by Nature, to answer or reach the ends of our first Creation, and the ends and uses which God designed us to, in forming and making us in his own Image and Likeness, that thereby we may see the necessity of Regeneration, for the restoring us (in measure) to our Primitive state, and capacitating us to attain those ends, and serve his designs, which we are, on many accounts, indispensably bound to do. I shall therefore present your unregenerate condi∣tion unto you, for your conviction and quick∣ning, yet further; and that with all possible brevity. 2. We are by sin fallen from God, and become real strangers to him; we have lost him in the Fogs of Lusts and Blindness. E∣ver since we were cast out of Paradise for sin, we have been wandring in the Wilderness and howling Desarts, and are Strangers and For∣reigners to God, and our selves, Eph. 2.12.19. and also to all happiness, and true blessed∣ness.

3 By Nature we are averse, and unwilling to know our states, sins, and wickedness, our mi∣sery and wretchedness, and the right way to obtain deliverance from, and out of them; as also to know Christ, and true Holiness, and most of all, to close, comply, and joyn Issues with God in his own way for our Salvation.

For although we are exceeding sinful and wretched, and God hath told us so plainly and particularly, and hath also shewed us the way to escape, held out the Golden Scepter to us, and proffered us his Hand to help us out, yet we shut our eyes, and stop our ears against him, and his favours, and refuse to accept his kindness and gracious proffers, until Re∣generation changes us, and gives us new Spi∣rits, Matth. 23.37. Joh. 5.4. Pro. 1.24. ult.

4 By Nature we are most vile, filthy, abomina∣ble, and loathsome Creatures, laden with sins, lying in our blood unwashed, full of all man∣ner of Leprous spots, and accursed Plague∣sores; hateful and contemptible; compared to Dogs, Swine, Serpents, Vipers, and Adders. Oh how doth the Holy Ghost in Scripture set us out, and decipher us? Rom. 3.10-20. Tit. 1. ult. Rev. 3.17. Rev. 22.11.13. Matth. 23.33. Ezek. 16.2-11. Isa. 1. Matth. 7.6. Eph. 2. with innumerable other like them.

5 By Nature we are without strength; we are as weak as water; we are so impotent, as that we cannot help our selves, nor do any thing aright that God commands; for by sin we lost all our spiritual strength and ability to do good, or obey any Command of God. By sin we depraved and deprived our selves of Light, Life, Holiness, Strength, and what∣ever was created with, or given to us, in our Creation and first make, all is demolished and ruined, Rom. 5.6. Rom. 8.3. Therefore in Re∣generation men receive new strength and power from God to obey, Phil. 2.13.

6 By Nature we are Servants to the Devil, and our own Lusts, Rebels and Enemies to and against God (as was shewed before.) We have chosen the service of Lusts and Satan, and are well pleased and contented with it, do it most willingly and readily, and are not weary of it; but against God we lift up the heel, and kick, throw off his Yoke, and reject his Au∣thority over us, in his Laws and Statutes, Joh. 8.44. Deut. 32. Eph. 2.2. Psal. 2. Rom. 6.

7 By Nature we are lovers of sin, and haters of God, 2 Tim. 3.4. Rom. 1.30. We sin upon choice, Isa. 66.3. and are greatly delighted with it, Pro. 2.14. As the Law of God is to Believers, namely, their joy and delight, Rom. 7.22. Psal. 1.2. so is sin and wickedness to Unbelievers, whilest such; they rejoyce not only to be evil, but also to do it, and to work it, or in it, with both hands, Jer. 11.15. It is their meat and drink, their pleasure and sa∣tisfaction to sin, and wallow in the Mire of one or other abomination.

8 By Nature we are dead in sins and trespas∣ses, Eph. 2.1.5. and live stinking above ground, like filthy Carrion. We are unsensible of our sin and misery, or of the wrong we have done to God, Men, and our own Souls. We are all by Nature like some condemned Malefa∣ctors, who are not touched with their Guilt or Punishment: Neither Gods Truths, Pro∣mises, Precepts, or Threatnings; neither his Judgments or Mercies, will pierce or make any saving impressions on us.

9 By Nature we are void of all Grace. We

have neither Faith to believe, nor Affection to love God; we neither will that which is good, nor believe that which is true, nor yet love that which is lovely, although we are indispensably bound to do it, in order to Eternal Life. He that believeth not shall be dam∣ned, Mark 16.16. and if any man love not ou•• Lord Jesus, namely, in sincerity, let him be accur∣sed, 1 Cor. 16.22. Eph. 6. ult. Therefore we stand in absolute need of Regeneration, that we may be enabled to believe in, and love Christ aright.

10 And lastly; By Nature we do not so much as desire to be made happy, by Free Grace, in the Lords own way. A happiness indeed we do de∣sire, but then we would obtain it in our own way, which will not do it. What men desire, that they chuse to, and for themselves; they desire happiness, and desire and chuse their ow•• way to it, Isa. 66.3. Rom. 10.3. There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death: So we read it, but J. and T. render it, Cujus finis est via multiplex as Mortem; the end of that seeming right way is manifold, or leads men divers ways to death and destruction, Pro. 14.12. and yet it seems the right way unto them, towards the obtain∣ment of happiness: But such is our Depra∣vity, Stupidity, Atheism, and Blindness, as that we see not, desire not to know the right way to it, neither are we freely willing to find and get it, in the ways God hath appoint∣ed. God hath appointed Faith in Christ, Re∣pentance towards God, Acts 20.21. and Gospel-Holiness,

Rom. 6.22. Heb. 14.14. to be the way to happiness; but men will rather lose their happiness, than have it in these ways of Gods own appointment: They will have God to bow and condescend to them, but they will not bend to, nor comply with the will and way of God; so that if God will save them, it must be on their own terms, not Gods; for they do by no means like or desire to win Heaven by Self-denial, Faith, Repentance, true Holiness, and Gospel-obedience, but in the way of their own hearts, Eccl. 11.9. The way of Gods prescribing is contrary to their Lusts, Humours, Inclinations, Interests, and Affections. Happiness they would have, but with all these. They do not account their obtainment of happiness, of that weight and moment, as to deny themselves of these to get it. All the Moral perswasions in the World will not make them change their minds; but that they may be happy on other and easier terms than, God propounds unto them. In Job 21.14. there is this description given of us, as in our Natural states; They say to God, depart from us, for we desire not the knowledge of thy ways; that is, the ways of God, which are appointed by God to lead and conduct men to Eternal Happiness. Now if men do not so much as desire happiness, much less will or can they seriously seek it in the Lords way; without which, yea, and also striving for it, men shall not find, nor obtain it, Luke 13.24. 1 Cor. 9.24. Thus we may see (by these few things) the necessity of Rege∣neration,

from the state and condition we are all in by Nature. I have said but little of what I could say of this matter; but I think I have said enough to evince and prove the absolute necessity of a new state, by what hath been said of our old; how unable and unca∣pable we are to answer, close up with, prose∣cute and obtain the ends of God in our first Make, or his knowing us in his own Image and Likeness, without Regeneration. How utterly unable we are to serve his holy de∣signs, without his special Grace, renewing and new moulding us for his own glorious ends and purposes, which is done by Rege∣neration.

Q. What have you else to offer for the further demonstrating and proving this great Truth, name∣ly, the absolute necessity of Regeneration, for our fuller information and conviction: for it is a hard matter to believe it, and there are but few that do believe what you have already said; yea, there are many that preach quite contrary Doctrine, and per∣swade men that they are Regenerated, in, and by their Water Baptism; and therefore they need no o∣ther Regeneration?

Answ. I shall therefore further prove and demonstrate this Truth to you, and shew you the absolute necessity of it, in these follow∣ing particulars.

1 No man can know Jesus Christ rightly and savingly, without Regeneration; therefore Regeneration is absolutely necessary for the right knowledge, or of knowing Christ, which is Life Eternal, Joh. 17.3. And that we can∣not

so know him until we are Regenerated, hath been already proved: For we are dark∣ness, Eph. 5.8. and walk in darkness, because darkness hath blinded our eyes, 1 Joh. 2.11.

2 No man can rightly believe in Christ, and in God the Father, without Regeneration; and therefore it is absolutely needful, It is abso∣lutely necessary to Salvation that we do right∣ly believe, because it is Gods Statute Law, that such as do not so believe, shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on them, Joh. 3.36. Now that none believe in Christ unto Salvation, is evident, because our sin and Gods Curse hath concluded, or (〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉) shut up all in unbelief, and believing is of Grace, Act. 1.18.2.1.

3 No man can rightly repent of his sins with∣out Regeneration; therefore it is absolutely necessary for Repentance. Now true Repen∣tance is absolutely necessary to Salvation; for God hath determined, that except we repent, we shall all perish, Luke 13.3.5. and that none can truly and savingly repent without the Grace of God in Regeneration, is evident, because the Scripture saith, We are under hardness of heart, in our unregenerate states, Ezek. 3.7. Mark 3.5. Rom. 2.5. Matth. 19.8. And also because Repentance unto Life, is the special gift of God, Acts 5.31. Acts 11.18.

4 No man can deny himself aright, for Christ, Grace, and Holiness, without Regeneration; therefore it is absolutely necessary for Self-denial. Now Self-denial is absolutely neces∣sary to Salvation, and in order thereunto, of being Christs Disciples, Luke 14.26. Mark 8.34.

And that Regeneration is as necessary to Self-denial, appears thus; because men have much more content and satisfaction in what they should forgo and part withal, than in Christ, Holiness, and Salvation, which they must sell, or leave for the obtainment of; and they seem to see a greater happiness in keeping their Lusts, Righteousness, Ease, and Interests, than in all that they may gain by exchanging what they have in possession, for that which is of∣fered them; and who will part with a cer∣tain and seemingly greater good, for that which they account more uncertain, and of lesser value? Thus is their case, and thus do they absurdly (in this matter) reason, as you may read Luke, 18.22, 23. Luke 14.17-21. Men will never learn, neither can they freely pra∣ctise the Doctrine and Duty of absolutely ne∣cessary Self-denial, until the Grace of God in Regeneration hath wrought them for it.

5 No man can really mortifie his lusts without Regeneration; therefore it is absolutely ne∣cessary. Now this must be done by God and us, or we shall be everlastingly undone, Rom. 8.13. Col. 3.5. Micah 7.18, 19. And that we cannot, will not do it, until we are New Creatures, is clear; for till then we are in love and league with them, make provision for them, as for Friends and Lovers, and have nothing, no Principle of Grace and Power, to do such a work withal; and will want a will to will it, an eye to see, and a hand to take hold of, and use the Sword that must do it, 2 Tim. 3.4. Rom. 13. ult. 1 Joh. 1.7.

6 No man can love God aright without Re∣generation; therefore it is absolutely necessa∣ry. It is absolutely needful that we love the Lord Jesus in sincerity, as we would avoid the great Curses, Eph. 6. ult. 1 Cor. 16.22. and this is done by the love of God shed abroad in our hearts in Regeneration, Deut. 30.6. Rom. 5.5. with∣out which we cannot so love him; for we have no such love in our hearts before Rege∣neration, but are swallowed up in, and with Self-love, with the entire love of our Lusts, Profits, Pleasures, and Carnal Delights.

7. No man can be united to, and made one with Christ, without Regeneration. We are not transplanted out of the old Adams Stock into Christ, the Heavenly Stock, without Re∣generation, but in and by it we are. We are not born (at first) living Members of his Bo∣dy, but are made such by Regeneration, (as was shewed.) This also is absolutely neces∣sary to Salvation: For all Professors of Christ, that hang about him only, and are not graft∣ed into him, shall be cast into Hell Fire, Joh. 15.6. Heb. 6.6, 7.

8 No man can make God his only trust, and live in a continual dependence on him, without Rege∣neration. This we are all bound to do, at all times, in all states and conditions, Psal. 62.8. Pro. 3.5. but we cannot do it without the great change; for we have not the Grace to do it withal, until the Holy Ghost convey it into us, by Regenerating us: Till then our Stays are broken Reeds, and on the broken Staff of Egypt do we rest our selves; there

do we repose our selves, and from them do we expect protection, aid, and succour; but we look not to, nor relye upon the Holy One of Israel in truth, but cast him out of our consideration.

9 No man can pray or worship God in a right manner, without Regeneration; therefore it is absolutely necessary. Until men are Rege∣nerated, they have neither the grace nor spi∣rit of Prayer; and therefore cannot possibly pray according to the Will of God, nor per∣form any part of Divine Worship, so as to please God, and be accepted of him. God gives men his Spirit of Grace, and the Grace of the Spirit in Regeneration, to enable them to worship him spiritually and rightly, so as to please and honour him; and there∣fore they cannot so worship God, before they are Regenerate, Zach. 12.10. Joh. 16.7, 8. Acts 9. Rom. 8.26, 27.

10 No man can obey God, or serve him with Gospel filial obedience, without he be Regenera∣ted; therefore Regeneration is absolutely necessary to make us obedient to the Will of God. Men without Regenerating Grace may do what God Commands, and the matter of Duty, but they cannot do it dutifully, with Heart-subjection to the Will of God, be∣cause he hath so commanded; for they are servants to Sin, and obey their Lusts, and the Devil, Rom. 6.16, 17. Joh. 8.44. It is Regeneration that conforms the whole man to the Will of God, and makes them real obedient Servants and Children, and nothing less will do it, Rom. 15.18.

11 No man can be related to Christ in any special or peculiar Relation. No man can be the Child of God, or Spouse of Christ, without Regeneration; and then they cannot be o∣bedient Children, nor Spouses, as they must be, if ever saved, 1 Pet. 1.14. It is Regenera∣tion that begets men to God, and raises up, or brings forth Children for him, 1 Pet. 1.3.14. It is Regeneration that disposes men for, and Marries them to Christ, 2 Cor. 11.2. And there∣fore they are not, neither may they claim the names or priviledges of Gods Children, or Christs Spouses, until they are Regenerated and born again; they are neither adopted Children, nor contracted Spouses, until Re∣generation.

12 No man can have dominion over all his lusts without Regeneration, neither can they curb and keep them under, until they are Re∣generate; their Lusts have dominion over them, and they serve and obey them, Eph. 2.3. Rom. 6.16, 17. But ever after Regeneration, they have dominion over their lusts, Rom. 6.14. They are enabled by Regeneration to Reign over, and trample on the Necks of those E∣nemies that had dominion over them all the days of their unregeneracy.

13 No man can live to God, and make it his whole business and endeavour so to do, until they are Regenerated. This is done by Grace af∣ter Regeneration, but never before; for all men have lost their will and power to do it, which is restored to them in Regeneration, (as was shewed.) The great end of Man was to

live to, and walk with God, 2 Cor. 2.15. Eph. 1.4. but men in their old state do devote themselves to live wholly and only to them∣selves, and not at all to God.

14 No man can be made free of the Heavenly City, and Spiritual Corporation, nor be set at li∣berty from bondage and thraldome, but in and by Regeneration. All men are (by Nature) in bondage to the Devil and Lusts, (as you heard before) but Regeneration is the year or day of Release and Enlargement to impri∣soned Souls; for then comes Jesus Christ, opens the Prison doors, and brings out his Prisoners, Joh. 8.36. Gal. 5.1.13. until then they lye in the Dungeon of darkness, bound hand and foot with Fetters of Iron, and shut in, under Impenitency, Ignorance, and Ʋnbelief, and cannot get forth, until the Jubilee comes and proclaims Liberty to them, Isa. 61.1, 2. Zach. 2.11. Then are they made Free Citizens of the New Jerusalem, and have their Freedom given them, to live and Trade in Heaven for heavenly and everlasting Commodities, Eph. 2.19. Phil. 3.20. Behold the necessity then of Regeneration.

15 No man can be actually and personally ju∣stified, pardoned, and acquitted, without Rege∣neration, but are held under the Guilt and Curse of the Law; for they must first believe unto Justification of life, before they can obtain a discharge, and take out an Acquit∣tance under the Hand and Seal of the Holy Ghost, Eph. 1.13. Rom. 5.18. but this they cannot do, for want of Faith, until they are

Regenerated, and thereby made partakers of this glorious Grace.

16 No man can fear God aright, namely, with a godly filial fear, nor indeed can he stand in awe of God, and sin not, or walk in the fear of God all the day long, as commanded, Pro. 23.17. Psal. 4.4. until they be Regenerated; for who can so fear and reverence God, until God put it into his heart to do it, Jer. 32.39, 40. for if they could, and had they where∣withal to do it without this Grace of God, to what purpose hath God promised to do it himself, and declared it to be a choise and singular Gift and Grace of his own giving and working in their hearts? I will (says God) put my fear into their hearts, that they may not depart from me, and that they may fear me for ever. And how can men fear God with a filial or Child-like fear, until they are made Chil∣dren by Regeneration, and begotten again by his Word and Spirit, 1 Pet. 1.3. Jam. 1.18. Joh. 3.5.

17 No man can make the Glory of God his greatest end and aim, and really design to please and honour God, in his words and deeds, without Re∣generation; therefore it is absolutely neces∣sary. We are indispensably bound to make God the chief and great aim and end of all our undertakings, and to seek, design, and endeavour with all possible seriousness and diligence, to please, honour, and exalt him, 1 Cor. 10.31. Col. 3.23. Pro. 3.9. Col. 1.10. 1 Thes. 4.1. But this we cannot do, until a new Spring of Life, and Divine Principles be

put into us by Regeneration; for we are by Nature wholly selfish, are quite swallowed up in sinful carnal self; Self is the principle, mo∣tive, and end of all our thoughts, words, and deeds; Self-pleasure, profit, ease, honour, and security, have only Self in the bottom and top of every Good, as well as Evil, in Religious, as well as Civil works: And how can it be otherwise with us, the Fountain of our Natures being so miserably corrupted and depraved as it is? And it is a truth, that the Streams cannot rise higher than the Fountains from whence they come.

18 No man can be the object of Gods delight and complacency, until he be Regenerated, because they have nothing that is lovely and desirable in them. Before Regeneration men are hateful, vile, and abominable in the sight of God, (as hath been shewed) as they are sinners, and un∣washed. It is the Nature and Image of God, that is the Object of Gods delight and com∣placency in men; for the God of Holiness cannot look on iniquity, he is of purer eyes than to do so, Habuk. 1.13. and this Nature and Image we have not, until we are Regenerated, and made New Creatures by Grace; for till then; God looks on us as in our blood, Ezek. 16. Rom. 3. 1 Cor. 6.9, 10, 11. and stamps his own Nature and Image on us, to make us clean, pure, lovely, and delightful in his eyes. He beautifies men with his Ornaments, that he may take pleasure in, and rejoyce with them, Zach. 3.17.

19 No man can claim a Right unto, and Inte∣rest

in the Covenant and Promises, without Re∣generation; for they are not under, neither have they any interest in them, whilest they lay in their blood, and continue in their state of Enmity against God. No man can be in∣terested in the Promises and Covenant of Grace and Life, that is not interested in Christ, and no man is interested in Christ, until he be a New Creature. All the Promises are in Christ, 2 Cor. 1.20. and they are made ours by vir∣tue of our having of, and being in Christ; and when we are in Christ, all is ours, 1 Cor. 3.21, 22, 23. and not till then; then we may claim and use them as ours, but not till then.

20 No man can be in a state of Grace and Life, without Regeneration; no man can be a ho∣ly, gracious, and good man, until he be Re∣generated. Whatever good things he may have, act, and do, yet he is in a state of sin and death still, until he pass under Regene∣ration. He may be washed without, yet he is a Swine still; he may put on Sheeps cloath∣ing, but he is a Wolf still; he may be enlight∣ned, but is in a state of darkness still; and he may believe many Truths, and yet be an Ʋn∣believer still, 2 Pet. 2.20.22. Matth. 7.15. Heb. 6.4. Joh. 8.30.44. Acts 8.13.23.

But I see I must contract my self, lest I run beyond my intentions; and therefore shall briefly sum up what I have further to say on this Head, that I may presently dismiss it. Therefore, I say, that as we stand in absolute need of Regeneration, for the Reasons and Ends already named, so likewise for those

that follow, which I shall but name. We cannot take up in God as in our portion, satisfa∣ction, and only happiness, without Regeneration, neither can we chuse him for the great and on∣ly delight of our Souls, without it. We cannot have our wills bowed to, and swallowed up into the Will of God, nor freely, chearfully, and dutifully yield up our selves to his di∣sposement, without Regeneration. We can∣not rejoyce in Christ Jesus, nor in tribulation and bearing the Cross, nor yet in doing good, and working Righteousness, without Rege∣neration. We cannot be dutifully and thank∣fully patient under, and contented with an af∣flicted state and condition, nor demean and carry our selves well in it, without Regene∣ration. We cannot be fruitful in every good work, nor bear fruit unto Eternal Life, with∣out Regeneration. We cannot highly esteem, and set a due, nor a right value on Christ his Person, Blood, Laws, and Grace, nor on the great love and kindness of God, but slight and disesteem all, without Regeneration. Without Regeneration we cannot willingly be nothing, that Christ may be all in all, nor be laid in the dust and debased, that he may be mag∣nified and exalted, nor suffer diminution to greaten him. We cannot walk uprightly with God, nor (indeed) set our affections on things a∣bove, as we are indispensably bound to do, without Regeneration. We cannot walk hum∣bly with God, nor be adorned and cloathed with Humility, be meek, and of poor and contrite spirits, without Regeneration. Without Re∣generation

we cannot (ought not) be Church-members, nor rightly participate of the Lords Sup∣per: For these great and distinguishing Pri∣viledges belong to, and were appointed only for New Creatures. In a word, we cannot be saved, nor walk in the right way to Heaven, nor have Communion with God here, or hereafter, without Regeneration.

And therefore Regeneration is absolutely needful for these, all these, and several other ends and purposes. It is absolutely necessary that we be saved from wrath to come, and in∣stated in Eternal Glory; and that in order thereunto we be Regenerated, and made new Creatures. That we be such indeed, and so do and walk, as hath been said, in order to our glorifying of God here, and Eternal Sal∣vation hereafter, which we cannot be, do, nor obtain, but in and by Regeneration; but in and by Regeneration we may and shall, and that because God hath so appointed and promised it. It is Gods fixed, stated way, and it shall stand inviolably; namely, that he will save men in and by Regeneration; and that such as are Regenerated shall be saved, and such as are not, shall most certainly be dam∣ned.

Therefore let no man flatter himself with vain hopes of ever getting to Heaven in any other way; for the purposes and Ordinances of God shall stand to all Generations, and he will do all his plea∣sure, Isa. 46.10, 11. He hath said it, and shall he not do it? Who can turn his hand, or alter his mind? and who durst say it shall not be

so, when he says it shall? O how bold and daring are men that contradict God? ho•• audaciously presumptions are they, who con∣fidently expect Salvation hereafter, without concerning themselves about Regeneration here? Seeing God hath peremptorily resol∣ved the case, and told men so, that unless they are born again, they cannot, shall not see the King∣dom of God, Joh. 3. and that without Holiness they shall not see God, Heb. 12.14.

Therefore I do exhort and beseech you i•• the Name of Jesus Christ, to look after, and seriously concern your selves about Regene∣ration, and never sit down satisfied with your conditions, until you find the Great Change; but go to God, and entreat him for Christ hi•• sake, to give you his Spirit and Regenerating Grace, and make you New Creatures, that you may be enabled to walk with, and live to God here, and be saved in his own way here∣after; and that he would now, with all possi∣ble speed, work his own Regenerating work with power in your hearts.

CHAP. III. Of the hinderances and obstructions that lye in the way of Regeneration.

Q. ARe there any lets, hinderances, or obstructi∣ons in the way of Regeneration, to im∣pede and hinder it?

A. There are very many and great obstru∣ctions in the way of Gods Regenerating men; insomuch, as that it is a wonder that any are Regenerated. God met with no lets or hin∣drances in his first Creating of us, but in his remaking us, he meets with many. He made us reasonable Creatures without opposition, but when he comes to make us New Crea∣tures, he finds nothing else but impediments, contradiction, and fightings against him. Hence 'tis said, Gen. 6.3. His spirit shall not always strive with man: And how often would I have gathered you, but ye would not, Matth. 23.37. And Christ tells the Jews, that they would not come to him, Joh. 8.40. though he had all the day long stretched out his hand to them, Rom. 10. ult.

Q. What are those contradictions, hinderances, and oppositions, the work of Regeneration meets withal, to impede and obstruct it, and from whom are they, or from whom do they arise?

A. These obstructions, contradictions, and oppositions that lye in the way, to impede

••nd hinder our Regeneration, are within and without us; they proceed and arise from our Lusts, World, and Devil. Regeneration mee•••• with strong oppositions from our Lusts, and it is made exceeding hard and difficult, from the state and condition we are in, before Re∣generation.

Q. Pray shew us what those Lusts are, which lay in the way of Regeneration, to oppose, impede, and obstruct it? What are those Iusts?

A. First, Atheism and Ʋnbelief. These Lusts abound, and are exceeding strong and active in us, to hinder our Regeneration. Sin hath made us Fools, and Fools say in their hearts, there is no God. Psal. 14.1. When God speaks, men will not hear him, neither do they be∣lieve it to be his voice, Exod. 5.1, 2. Who is the Lord (says Pharach.) Men are by Nature so Atheistical, as that they will not believe that God sees or regards their works, and there∣fore do imbolden themselves in suming, and following their Lusts and devillish devices with this perswasion, that no eye sees them and that there is no hand to punish them Psal. 10.11. Psal. 64.5. Isa. 29.15. They i∣magine and conclude then, that if God see not their ways, nor takes notice of their wickedness, that no evil shall fall on them for •••• Jer. 23.17. yea, they are confident they sh•••• have peace, and that while they are addi•••• drunkenness to thirst, that is, one sin to anothe•• with all greediness, Deut. 29.19, 20. 1 The•• 5.3. This Atheism is deeply rooted in a•• men by Nature; in Professors of the Name

Truths, and good ways of God; as well as in professed Turks and Heathens, as is shewed in the said Scriptures: And the infidelity of mens hearts is such, as that they will not believe that they do really stand in need of Regeneration; even those men who profess to believe there is a God, that he sees and takes notice of their states and ways, that the Scriptures of God are true, that God rules in and governs the World, and that he hath punishments for the unjust, and will recom∣pence their way on their heads, and render to every man according to his works, Rom. 2.6. I fay, those men that do so believe, do not see and believe indeed their own present states, and their own necessity of Regeneration, but flatter themselves in the vain and groundless imaginations of their own hearts, that if they mend their ways, reform without, and turn from vicious courses and practises, to the eternal practise of Vertue, that in so doing they may obtain happiness, and do well e∣nough hereafter, although they stick there, and never are Regenerated. Hence it is that they conclude, that 'tis in vain, and a kind of superstition in them, to trouble and concern themselves to look any further, or seek after a change of heart and state, but resolve they will not do so, whatever is said to confute and convince them of their errour, but in that state they will abide, in spite of God, Angels, and Men, and that when God comes and proffers to Regenerate and make them New Creatures. And hence it is, that they

stoutly and stubbornly resist and rise up in violent opposition against God, and the word of his Grace; disputing against, and con∣tending with him, and the means he gives them for their change; and in effect say, we are well enough, why should we trouble our selves; yea, why should God concern or trou∣ble himself any further with us, seeing we are in a state of Salvation already, and may without any more ado be saved if God will. Men are naturally such strangers to their own states, as that they do not, will not believe, that Regeneration is needful and absolutely necessary for their Salvation, or that it a∣mounts to any more than a bare Reformation and change of practise. Regeneration is such a Mystery, and they are so captivated to their Ignorance, Atheism, and Unbelief, as that they think it is but an idle story, and a needlest thing, especially if they are Moral honest men, and great Professors of the Gospel. Hence it was, when Christ had to do with, and intended to convert Nicodemus, (who was a Moral and Religious honest man) that he presses the necessity of Regeneration on him with four Asseverations together; Except a man (namely, thou and others) be born again, ye cannot enter into the Kingdom of God: And mar∣vel not at this, ye must be born again, Joh. 3.3.5.7. So in Matth. 18.3. Verily, I say to you, except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. And as they neither see nor believe in good earnest, their need of Regeneration, so they believe

not that God hath a mind, that he doth (in∣deed) propose, intend, or is really willing to Regenerate them; but they dream (as being under the power of their Infidelity and delu∣sions) and perswade themselves, that what∣ever they read, or hear Ministers report of these things, that they are but Fictions, and fancies of men, and that there is no truth nor reality in it, or if there be, yet they are not concerned in what they say unto them, for their effectual Conviction and Regeneration. And therefore when Christ strives, and his Ministers strive with them, to get into their hearts, and Regenerate them, they defend themselves, stand upon their ground, and do all they can to prevent and hinder them, Rom. 10. ult. Heb. 3.1.15. Thus you see that A∣theism and Unbelief is a Potent Enemy to Regeneration.

Secondly, Hatred of God and Holiness, and their great love, strong and much endeared affecti∣on to their sins, lusts, and the world, greatly op∣poses Regenerating Grace, or the work of Regeneration in us. That by Nature we are haters of God, the Yoke of Christ, and Pow∣er of Godliness you have heard before; as also that we have great affection for, and are much in love with our Lusts, and the World. Now that these are exceeding great Enemies to, and obstructions of our Regeneration, is evident in Luk. 14.16, 17, 18, 19, 20. God makes a Supper of Grace and favour for sin∣ners, makes it ready, sets it on the Table, and sends his Servants to invite them to come

and eat; but would they come? no, in no wise: But why not? why, because they had other things to mind, and, as they thought, of greater concernment; One had a Wife, ano∣ther a Farm, and another Oxen. These were the things they loved, minded, and so greatly delighted in; these things lay so near their hearts, as that they would not, could not come, nor could the most loving Invitation perswade them, their worldly lusts were so strong. This made them reject that Grace that was so freely and earnestly proffered them: So Covetousness caused the young m•••• to reject Christ, Grace, and Heaven, Luke 18.22, 23, and made him resolve to lose all, ra∣ther than forgo that bosom lust. He stood it out stoutly, and would not bow, or yield an inch to Christ, although his Life and Soul lay at stake for it. And to the same purpose we read in Luk. 19.27. of some who were so wedded to their lusts and interests, as that they peremptorily rejected Christs Yoke: They preferred the service of Sin before the service of Christ, and chose rather to have their Lusts to Reign over them, than the Lord Jesus.

By Nature men are such Enemies to God, and Godliness, I mean the power of it, as that they hate the Light that would shew them their errour, acquaint them with God, and bring to the saving knowledge of true happiness, Joh. 3.19, 20. And they are said to abhor God, Zach. 11.8. and likewise the Word and Laws of God, Levit. 26.15. The

Scribes and Pharisees were Religious men, and knew more than others did of the Will of God, and yet they stifly opposed the Grace and Gospel of Christ, that was brought to them, for their Regeneration, if they would accept it; yea, they hated the Lord Jesus Christ for proffering his Grace and Assi∣stance to them, and publishing the glad ty∣dings of Salvation, Joh. 15.24, 25. And how desperately did the Jews set themselves a∣gainst the Apostles Preaching Christ and Grace unto them? what exceeding great enmity, malignity, malice, and hatred, did they ex∣press all along, to and against their Preach∣ing, and tendering Christ and his Grace unto them, for their Regeneration and Salvation, you may see at large in the Acts. The Lan∣guage of us all by Nature is, we have loved strangers, and after them we will go, Jer. 2.25. and therefore, as for the Word of the Lord, which he hath spoken, we will not do it, Jer. 44.16, 17. Moreover, Pride is a strong and hostile Enemy to Regeneration: Man is a very proud Crea∣ture, and as full of Diabolical and Carnal Pride, as a Toad is of Poyson. This is the Lust that makes men scorn to come up to Christs terms, or bow to his Proposals: They dis∣dain to be beholding to Free Grace for any thing, and therefore will not hearken to any of Christs Offers. Pride sets men in Battle∣array against Christ, to dispute and sight it out with him: It is so strong a Fort, such an impregnable Castle, as that no strength can take and subdue it, but Omnipotency, that can

do it, but none else can, Eph. 1.19, 20. Psal. 110.3. 2 Cor. 10.4, 5. This is the Lust that makes men so boldly and audaciously set their mouths against the Heavens, Psal. 73.9. and so pertinaciously contend with God; it causes men to think highly of themselves, and vile∣ly of Christ, Grace, and a New State; it makes them desperate and resolute in the way of their own hearts, and turn a deaf Ear to the Lords Calls and Admonitions; it causes them to trample on the Gospel, Christ, and his Blood, and Righteousness, and to harden their hearts against all reproofs and instructi∣ons: All the Angels in Heaven, or Ministers on Earth, cannot pull down this strong hold, and it is as great an Adversary as any Christ hath in the world; to obstruct his Grace; it is the Great Goliah that stands in open defiance against Christ, and makes the stoutest resi∣stance against our Regeneration.

Again, our Self-righteousness is an other great obstacle and Bull-work against our Re∣generation. Men have long been building up that which God will and must pull down, in regenerating us. God will not suffer our own Babels to stand, when he comes to set up Zion in our hearts; neither will he let Dagon a∣lone, when he comes to set up his Ark in us. All our works, conceits, and imaginations, are but Rubbish and Dirt that must be thrown away, and cast out, to make way for his build∣ing; and therefore God begins here, name∣ly, to overturn, demolish, and remove out his way, the strong Towers and Fortresses

of our own high thoughts, conceits, works, and vain imaginations, that so we being left destitute of succour, and grounds of hope in our selves, we may freely comply and joyn Issues with God in his works of Grace in us. But now, when God comes to do this, O what strong resistance, and violent opposition, doth our Self-righteousness, and good conceits of our selves, make against God, and the works of his Grace: God would undo us, that he may make us; he would pull us down, and quite deface our own Structures, that he may build and set up his own in us. Buch such are our conceits and apprehensions of our sufficiency, goodness, righteousness, accepta∣ble and worthy performances, as that we harden our hearts against all Convictions of the invalidity and nothingness, yea, vanity and sinfulness of them; and are exceedingly averse to, and unwilling of any alteration; cannot endure to think of losing all that we have wrought for so many years, and after so much labour and confidence, peace and satis∣faction in our states, and what we have done, to lose all at once, and be beholding at last only to the free gift of another; flesh and blood will never endure it, and therefore makes all possible opposition against it. Men have been long rich and happy in their own eyes, and therefore cannot bear to be undone and impoverished, to be poor and miserable, wretched and naked. And hence it is that they shut their eyes, and stop their ears a∣gainst Light, and Gods gracious Invitations.

They will have none of him, because they fancy they have enough, and do, and may do enough of their own, to make them happy. This was the case of some of the Laodiceans, Rev. 3.17. they thought themselves rich, and had need of nothing; and that when they were wretched, naked, and miserable. Thus it was with Paul before he was Regenerated, Phil. 3.4, 5, 6, 7. And this was one of the great ob∣structions that hindred the Jews from recei∣ving the Grace of Christ, tendred them by Christ and his Apostles, John 8, and 9, Chap∣ters. And in Luke 18.9, 10, 11, 12. their self-conceited righteousness and light, their pri∣viledges and good works, made them such desperate, resolute, violent, and stout oppo∣sers of the Grace of God; and thus is still the nature and effect of it in all the Sons and Daughters of men, as sad experience shews.

And as Self-righteousness, and a good O∣pinion of our selves, is a strong Bar to fence us against Gods Regenerating work, so are vain and groundless hopes likewise. These oppositions and contradictions do all hang together in a string, as so many Links in a Chain; where one is, all are; but one may be stronger in one man, and another in ano∣ther man. Men are by Nature exceeding full of presumptious hopes and confidences, they seign that God will save them, because he is good and merciful to sinners, although they continue in their filthiness and practical abo∣minations, in their blindness and unregene∣rate states. The Conceptions of Gods Mer∣cies,

proves snares and dangerous Rocks to unregenerate men, while they confidently conclude that God will have mercy on, and save them, because he is merciful, though they live and die in their unregenerate states and condition, although the Word of God tell them the contrary, Isa. 27.11. This is the vain hope of hypocrites, mentioned in Job 8.13, 14. which shall perish with them. Presump∣tious confidences, and vain hopes, are natural to us, and we will take hold of any broken Reed to keep us from despondency, or ma∣king a right judgment of our selves, states, and ways, rather than yield to the counsels of God, and suffer him to save us in his own way, and by his own means. This vain pre∣sumptious hope, is that which arms and strengthens the Soul against Christ, and lies in a direct opposition to our Regeneration.

Again, Hardness of heart is a great Bar to Regeneration. We are by Nature hardened in sin, and in fond conceits of our good con∣ditions; and therefore the work of Regene∣ration in us, must needs be very hard and diffi∣cult work. We are so hardened by sin, and we harden our selves more and more, when God hands out Light to us to see our states, and lead us to himself. When God comes to Re∣generate, then we are most insensible of our conditions, and harden our hearts most a∣gainst him, even then when he would soften and melt us, break and humble us; we were hard and knotty pieces before, but then we make our selves much harder; for then

we do purposely and designedly set our selves against God and his workings; and as water strives with greater vehemency against oppo∣sition, so do our hard hearts against the Spi∣rits operations in us, to renew and change us, Ezek. 3.7. Pharoah was a hard-hearted man before God sent Moses and Aaron to him, but then he set himself to harden his heart a∣gainst God, and his Word, more than ever. So when God sent the means of Grace to the Jews, and strove with them to bring them to himself, the more he wrestled with them, exhorted, and perswaded them to receive his Grace, and become New Creatures, the more they strove and fought against him, Acts 19. Acts 28. until God judicially hardened them also, and then they were sealed up (as it were) to the day of wrath, Joh. 12.40. Then 'tis ever after a hard and impenitent heart, Rom. 2.5.

Lastly, Enmity. There is in every natural man most stout and strong Enmity against God, which is implacable and irreconcileable. There can no peace or friendship be had with an implacable Enemy, and a man that is at real Enmity with us, until he be changed. The Carnal mind is not only an Enemy to God, but 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, Emnity against God, Rom. 8.7. And in Rom. 1.31. they are said to be implacable. Enmity will never be won and made to yield, either by fair or foul means; but such is the nature of it, as that it will rather die on the place, than conform to any tolerable terms of friendship with an

Adversary. But the Enmity of our Natures is most stout, stubborn, and desperate against God; for 'tis possible for a man to perswade him that is at Enmity with him, to some rea∣sonable terms of accommodation, by his great condescention and bowing to him, by sweet and affable carriages, by the entreaty and perswasion of Friends, and by proffering to serve him, and give him all he hath.

But it is not so between men and God; for although God condescends, and as it were bows down to us, and that infinitely more than men can do, though he carry himself most sweetly and affably to us, proffers friendship and reconciliation to us, entreats and perswades us by his Ministers, promises and proffers to wait on us, protect, and guard us; yea, give all he hath to inrich us, honour and exalt us with all his Sons Fulness, and possess us of all his Heavenly Treasures, if we will yield and be reconciled to him. But all these endeavours are in vain, none of them will work on Enmity, to perswade and bow it to the Will and Designs of God; yea, these means are all contemned, and are im∣proved to heighten and strengthen the Enmi∣ty by us. Enmity causes men to bid defi∣ance to such Acts and Overtures of God for the winning and bringing us over to himself; they make us more obstinate, implacable, and irreconcileable. The Jews give us a sufficient proof of this Truth, as well as what is daily found amongst us: For who shews greater Enmity against Christ, his Grace, and Gospel,

than such to whom he daily holds forth the Golden Scepter of his Mercy, and beseeches to be reconciled to him.

These are some of the stout Enemies of our Regeneration, which are bred in our own Bosoms, and strongly arm and fortifie our Souls against Christ. These are some of the Goliah's that rebel against the Authority and Commands of God, and that hold fast the Castles of our hearts, and keep them shut against him, when he comes to assault and subdue them; and so makes our Rege∣neration very hard and difficult. I could have instanced in several other internal oppositi∣ons, but time would fail me.

Secondly, Without, and within us too. The Devil is an external and internal Adversary to the work of Regeneration; he is an im∣placable and active Enemy to and against our New State; for he hates Christ, and his Grace in men, and cannot endure to see a holy Job, or gracious Paul in the world; and therefore endeavours to make and keep all men like himself, and leaves no means unattempted to effect it, but goes about night and day, seeking whom he may devour, 1 Pet. 5.8. There is an Everlasting Enmity put between the Seed of the Woman, and the Seed of the Serpent, Gen. 3. and much more between the Devil and Grace. And as the Devil hates Christ, and his Grace in men, so likewise the happy and blessed state that the Grace of Regeneration puts them into. He knows that he is a most mi∣serable Creature himself, being condemned,

and put into Chains of darkness, to everlasting fire, Jude 6. Matth. 25.41. And therefore he greatly envies and malignes the happiness of good men. It cuts him to the heart to see any of the Sons of Adam restored to a state of Blessedness; to see the Grace of God in them, and they in Friendship with God. For no sooner had God made man in his own I∣mage, Gen. 1.26, 27. set them in Paradise, and given them a positive Law to obey; but by and by, he sets on them to debauch and spoil them, and uses all possible subtilty and diligence to effect it, Gen. 3. which succeed∣ed according to his mind for a time. So when he saw Job walk uprightly, and in high fa∣vour with God, how does he labour to cor∣rupt him, and turn him from his integrity, in the first and second Chapter of Job. And as the Devil envies the happiness of good men, and therefore labours to hinder their Rege∣neration, so likewise his loathness to loose his Subjects. The Devil is the God and Lord of the World, 2 Cor. 4.4. Eph. 2.2. and hath many willing and obedient Subjects, Rom. 6. We are all by Nature the Devils Subjects and Servants, he hath the first possession of, and service from us; and when God Regenerates a man, he takes him out of the Devils King∣dom, and calls him out of his subjection and service, and puts him into his Kingdom and service, Col. 1.13. Rom. 6. Now this is so grievous to him, as that he cannot quietly bear it, but doth all he can to hinder and obstruct it, and that by all possible ways and

means. He is in possession, and rules in the hearts, Luk. 11.20, 21, 22. and will not 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his Subjects go, until a stronger than he fo••∣ces him to yield; but as Pharaoh (a shad•••• of the Devil) would not let Israel go out 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his Kingdom to serve God, so will not th•• Devil let mens Souls go to serve Christ, un•••• he brings them out with a strong hand; 〈◊〉〈◊〉 so Christ gets all his Subjects out of Sat•••• hand, and puts them into his own Kingdo•• In Regeneration Christ leads Captivity capti•••• Eph. 4.8. takes the Spoil out of his han•• and breaks his Jaws, Job 29.17. Christ binds 〈◊〉〈◊〉 strong man (or Devil) and takes away his good•• he turns the Devil out of office, and out 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the possession of their hearts, and enters 〈◊〉〈◊〉 himself; takes on him the Rule and Govern∣ment of them, and makes them his will•• and obedient Subjects; translates them i•• his Kingdom, and that by their own volu••∣tary Resignation of themselves to him. No•• this the Devil cannot but greatly oppose a•• fight against, and will never yield nor sub∣mit, but when the Lord Jesus comes to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his own, which he hath bought with his bl•••• 1 Cor. 6.19. and begins to awaken and eu∣ven them. O how does the Devil rage 〈◊〉〈◊〉 storm, fight, and oppose, to keep his Subject in subjection to him? O how does he dr•• up all his Forces, and make Head again Christ, to keep men out of his hand? some∣times by flatteries, and sometimes by thre•• nings. Now he labours to hold them fa•• by perswading them that they are in pea••••

and in a good condition; that they are un∣der delusions, and sinister mistakes; that if they continue as they are, they shall have peace, and need not doubt of their Salvation; and that those troubles they are under are of the Devil, and their own miss-judging of their states. He flatters and perswades them to mind their pleasures and profits, and not trouble or concern themselves about Religi∣on, for that will but distract and perplex them, and no way advantage them. He tells them, that in their present state they may have their hearts desire, but so they shall not have in the singular and melancholly ways of Re∣ligion, which now they begin to concern themselves withal; and that if they once in∣gage themselves in those matters, they shall never find any good, or satisfaction in them, comparable to that which they must forgo, and part withal, and which hitherto they have, and hereafter they may more fully en∣joy in their present states and practises. Sometimes he will threaten and affright them, by telling them that they do make vain at∣tempts, for it is but lost labour for them to expect or look for Salvation; for either God hates them, they are not Elected, or that the day of Grace is past, and so there is no hope for them; therefore they were better sit still and be quiet, enjoy their pleasures, and ful∣fil the desires of the flesh, as long as they may. He tells them, that if they do begin to take up with the strict ways of Gospel Religion, they will be undone, never hold

out to the end, and so but heighten their mi••∣sery thereby; that there are but a few sill•• Souls, and that of the poorer sort, that min•• Religion, or suffer such a work to be wrough•• in them, as Regeneration is; and that to b•• singular in this matter, is but to expose them∣selves to all manner of infamy and reproach.

By these, and many other stratagems, doth the Devil labour to withstand Christ, and obstruct our Regeneration; and most poo•• Souls are prevailed on, to joyn Issue with him, and continue to make stout opposition against the Holy Spirit his endeavours to convert them. It is the Devil likewise that obstructs and hinders the Preaching of the Gospel to men, by such Instruments as he is pleased to make use of for that end and pur∣pose. Thus he made use of the Jews to keep the Gospel from the Gentiles, when the Apo∣stles were sent to them with it; and if he cannot keep the Gospel from men, he wil•• endeavour to keep and hinder them from hearing it sincerely preached to them: And if this will not do, but men will hear Christs Ministers Preach, then he will cause men to turn a deaf ear to what they hear, that doth more nearly concern their states and conditi∣ons, lest the Gospel should fall with power on their hearts. Thus the Devil wrought and prevailed on Stephen his hearers. In Acts 7. it is said, when he preached to them, they stop∣ped their ears.

But now, in the mean while, what a hard piece of work hath Christ on't, namely, i••

Regenerating us? O what strong Castles must he assault? and what potent Enemies must he fight down and destroy, before the work of Regeneration can be thorowly effected?

But besides these, there is another great obstruction in the way of Regeneration, and that is the World. The good and bad people, and things of this world, are great hinderan∣ces of our Regeneration: The unworthy walkings of many Professors of the good ways of Christ, and the reproaches and per∣secutions of the wicked, are no small lets and impediments to, and of Regeneration. So are also the riches, pleasures, and honours of this World. These pull back the hearts of men, and keep them from entering into the Kingdom of Heaven, Luk. 18.22, 23. and these take off mens thoughts from serious minding of their states, and another world. These things lye so deep in our minds and affections, and do so powerfully delude and bewitch all our senses, that we have no minds, wills, or incli∣nations, to mind or set our hearts on things above; yea, they have so great an interest in us, and authority over us, as that they do command our most serious and fixed atten∣dance on them, and greedy pursuit after them, whereby the Calls and Commands of God are shut out of our hearts. The smiles and good things of this world, are the Gods, or rather Idols of our hearts, the Lovers that we dote on, and are fond of, and the great desire and delight of our Souls; and they being so, it is as easie for us to pull the Sun

out of Heaven, as our hearts from these things. We may as well change a Black-mor•• Skin white, or empty the Sea with a Nut-shell, as to empty and cast out the World of our hearts, and change their course and way. Earthly things are our Lords, and hold us fast, as Prisoners in their Chains. We are their Humble Servants, and at their beck we go and come: We are swallowed up in them at a Ship in a Gulf, and they are enthroned and fixed in our hearts, as in their proper place and center. We mind and affect Earthly good things (by Nature) as our Heaven, Happi∣ness, and satisfying good; and see not, nei∣ther will we be perswaded without Regene∣rating Grace, that there is indeed any higher or greater happiness, or real satisfaction to be found, than what they can afford us. These are called their good things, because they ac∣count them so, and are well pleased and con∣tented with them, without Christ and his Grace. They had rather live in sin, blind∣ness, and under the wrath of God, with a∣bundance of them, then in Heaven, and under Regeneration, without them, Luk. 12.16, 17, 18, 20. Luk. 16.25. Luk. 18.22, 23, 24.

Oh! How common is it with men to com∣pass Sea and Land for the World; to labour and toil night and day to get, spend, and be spent to keep it, when gotten, yea, to hazard and venture their lives, and Souls too, to ob∣tain and secure it; and that because of their excessive and inordinate love to, and delight in these things. Men will much more wil∣lingly

part with Christ, Grace, and Heaven, than with their Riches, Honours, and Plea∣sures. Hence Christ tells his Disciples, that it is a hard matter for them to be saved that are rich, Luk. 18.24.25.

Now when Christ comes to regenerate and change our states, he calls us off from so mind∣ing, affecting, and taking up with these things, and to mind, follow, and set our hearts on heaven∣ly, Col. 3.1, 2. And this is so cross and con∣trary unto the Natural Genius of our hearts and course of our lives, our satisfaction and supposed happiness, as that we will by no means be convinced of our folly, and per∣swaded to come to Christ, accept of him, and his Regenerating Grace for our portion and happiness, until he puts forth his Almighty Power to work and perswade us to it. And O what a hard and difficult work hath Christ to do in us, and for us? What a world of stout oppositions, and implacable Opposers, doth Christ meet withal in this work? The Lusts of our Hearts, the Devil and World, Carnal and Spiritual Self, do all combine together, to make Head and strong opposition against the Lord Jesus, when he would Regenerate us.

CHAP. IV. Certain signs or undoubted Characters of Rege∣nerate and Ʋnregenerate Persons.

Q. WHether Ʋnregenerate persons may not know, and be sometimes strongly convin∣ced, that they are in an unregenerate and evil state and condition?

A. Yea, they may, and it is certain that many are so convinced, but very loath they are to know it, and exceeding unwilling to think themselves to be so, and greatly provoked with such friends as tell them that they are in an e∣vil case, and unconverted state; for we are all by nature exceeding proud and self-conceited. We think too well of our own conditions, states, and ways, and imagin that all others should have the same opinion of them that we our selves have. And therefore conclude, that such as think and speak otherwise of them, are too uncharitable and censorious. This is one of the greatest stumbling blocks in the way of Regeneration, and causes many to tune a deaf ear to all convincing and regenerating Truths that are handed out unto them. Besides the vain groundless hopes they have formed to themselves, and are greatly in love withal, that they are in a good and safe condition, (al∣though they are not so good as they should be) whatever men and the word of God shall say

to the contrary, of or against them. The Jews gives us many proofs and evidences of it, for when the Lord Jesus Preached to, and dis∣coursed with them about their states, to con∣vince and regenerate them. Oh! how did they labour to fence off all the words of Truth spoken to them, how did they strive, dispute, and set themselves against the Gospel of their Salvation, and that upon the grounds before mentioned; yea, those very persons which sometimes were convinced in their Consciences that they were sinners, Joh. 8.9. I say, even these men did ordinarily harden themselves against the Word of Christ, upon their vain hopes, high priviledges, proud and high conceits they had of themselves, Joh. 8.33.39, 48.—ult Joh. 9. Joh. 10. Math. 9. Read these Chapters through∣out, and you will find what I have said abun∣dantly confirmed, and as it was with them, so I am afraid it is with many of you; do not you conceit, and stoutly perswade your selves, that you are in a safe and happy state and condition before God, that you shall undoubtedly be saved, notwithstanding the Truth of God, Mi∣nisters of Christ, yea, and sometimes your own Consciences testify the contrary also, and tell you plainly, That you are yet in the gall of bitter∣ness, and bond of Iniquity? do not you encou∣rage and support your selves, fortify and arm your selves under and against all convictions, with many vain and groundless hopes and de∣lusive conceits of your blessed states, or that you are in a happy case and condition, although you never experienced any real change in your

hearts, nor any special grace of Christ in your poor deluded perishing Souls?

But yet I say, unregenerate persons may know, and have a shrewd guess, that they them∣selves are not unregenerated, but in a state of sin, and under the wrath of God. Simon Magat was so, Acts 8.24. Pharoah, Exod. 9.27. unre∣generate men have three means, (if I may so call them) to help them to the knowledge and conviction of their bad conditions. First, the word of God written, but especially Preached; and so it is the word of conviction in the hand of an Ordinance, appointed and designed there∣unto by the great God, Act. 26.18. (2) Their own natural Consciences, and principles of Nature that are in all men, not feared, which are subjects capable of impressions from the Word of God, namely of its light and convin∣cing power: and also natural Reason helped by the Word; so that when they hear the cer∣tain Characters of unregenerate persons laid down from Gods Word; they may reflect on themselves, and apply them to themselves if they will. They may reason thus, why, if these are certain Characters or Signs of an evil or unregenerate man or state, as I cannot but conclude they are: then am I in such a state, for I find them in and upon me, I cannot deny it. As thus, Is gross ignorance of Jesus Christ, the grace of God, Sin and Duty, a certain sign of an unregenerate person, surely then I am an unregenerate person, for I am grosly ignorant of these things. So when they hear Characters

or Signs laid down of a regenerate man, then to examin themselves, and reason thus, Why, I find not any of these in my self, which I should if I was regenerate, and therefore I am in an unregenerate state and condition: much might be done this way, by unregenerate men to∣wards their conviction and knowledge (I mean not saving knowledge) of their States; would such men practise it, but that they will not, no, because they love their carnal ease and peace, and therefore they are willingly ignorant of their unregenerate state. And as they have these means or helps to know their evil States, so (3) the holy Spirit of God, to stir up Con∣science in and by the Word. The Spirit speaks sometimes to them, (not as the Spirit of Adop∣tion, but of Bondage) whose voice is louder, quicker, and pierceth further unto, and into their Consciences, than the word of its self can do, and tells them plainly, that they are in a damnable state and condition, and shall assu∣redly perish for ever, except they be regene∣rate here, Gen. 6.3. This awakens and affrights them, this humbles and abases them, and makes them cry out, undone, undone, we are lost; Oh! what shall we do to be saved? Acts 2.37. And here I might add, that not only these said means may help them to the knowledge of their states, but also the discourses, carriages, and conversations of some Regenerate persons that they are concerned withal, and may make observations of, and compare themselves with them, and them with themselves, and conclude (clearly) that there is a vast difference between

such and themselves, the states of the one, and of the other. And if these be Regenerate persons, and Regenerate persons be indeed such, and so and so qualified, graced and spi∣rited, as they seem to be, then that they them∣selves are undoubtedly in an Unregenerate condition; for that they are not such persons, neither have any of their qualifications, or any like them, Matth. 5.16. Now, if Unregenerate men would improve, and rationally use these means or helps towards the knowledge and conviction of their states, they might un∣doubtedly know them better than they do. But there needs no further proof of this truth, namely, that unregenerate persons may know they are in a bad condition, then the Gripes, and trouble of Conscience, their fears, trembling, and consternations, in and under the appre∣hensions of Death and Judgment, together with their wishes, protestations, resolutions, and promises, on their Death-beds; These do all proclaim this Truth.

Q. May not Gods people, such as are Regenerate, know that they are so, and be sufficiently assured of their Regeneration?

A. They may, for first, God hath promised the knowledge of it unto them, in their obe∣dient and holy walkings with God in that state, Hosea 6.3. Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord. Isa. 32.17. Prov. 2.1.••7. So the Spirit witnesseth with our Spirit, that we are the Children of God, Rom. 8.16.

2. The people of God have had certain and clear assurance, or a sufficient knowledge of

their Regenerate states, and the Spirit of God hath recorded it, for our learning and encou∣ragement Enoch had it, Heb. 11.5. and the A∣postle John speaking in the name of Believers, or regenerate persons, saith, We know that we are of God, That we are translated from Death to Life, and hereby know we that we are in him, 1 John 2.5.3.14.5.19. And Paul tells us, that they, namely, he and other Regenerate Persons, had received the Spirit, that they might know the things which were freely given to them of God, 1 Cor. 2.12. Now, if it was certainly known by the Saints of old, such as run their Race before us; then we may obtain it now; for we live under the same God, Christ, Grace, Promises, Love, Spirit, and means of assurance that they did, and we have as much need of it as they had upon all accounts. And as we have these, and many other Scripture Evidences or Ex∣amples, (I mean the Saints mentioned in Scri∣pture) so we have had many undoubted Te∣stimonies of it in and from many good men in our days, and the latter Ages before us. How that some on their Death-Beds, others in the days of their prosperity, others in their tryals and temptations: Some in one Ordi∣nance of God, and some in another; some in Prison, and some at the Stake; some under the loss of their Goods and Reproaches for Christs sake, have gotten clear, and heart ra∣vishing Assurance of their Regeneration and blessed States. I say, we have this Truth confirmed to us by their worthy Testimonies, and glorious Experiences. And assuredly,

what they had, we also may obtain in the same way, in and by the use of the same means, and in the same, or like case and condition.

2. God hath commanded Regenerate Per∣sons, and so hath made it their Duty, to get and keep assurance of their new States; and God would never have prescribed such a means, and commanded our diligent use of it as our duty, in order to the obtainment of the end, but that the said end is attainable by, and shall most certainly be obtained in the faithful constant use of it. For as his com∣mands makes the work or means our duty, so the End propounded, namely, of the duty to be done by us, is the obtainment of assurance, so I say, it is an object of our Faith and Hope: And upon Gods propounding it to us as the end of the duty commended, we are to be∣lieve and hope in the performance of the duty to obtain the end, (that is) assurance of our being translated from Death to Life; namely, that God will bless his own means, to effect and accomplish his own ends to and in us, and he will by no means disappoint us, or make us ashamed of our trusting him, hoping in, and waiting for him to grant us the end he pre∣sented to us, commanded us to seek it, that we might find it, and which we have endea∣voured with all our hearts to obtain in his own way, Isa. 49.20. Isa. 54.4. Now God hath charged us to examin and prove our selves, 2 Cor. 13.5. And to give diligence to make our Calling and Election sure, 2 Pet. 1.10. And to worship him, in full assurance of Faith,

Heb. 10.22. that is, in the certain perswasion of Gods Truth, All-sufficiency, and Faithful∣ness in his Promises, and of Christ his being a High-Priest over the House of God, vers. 21. So likewise of our Interest and Right to and in all.

4. God hath given us many Rules and Marks in his Word, to help us in our Tryals of our states, and to make a comfortable and satis∣factory judgment of them, whether we are indeed Regenerate or no. Very much of the New Testament was written for that end, that we might know we have Eternal Life, saith John, 1 Joh. 5.13. All which Scripture had been to little or no purpose, if assurance, after all, were not attainable. But it is evi∣dent that it is attainable, and that all Rege∣nerate persons may attain unto and obtain it, because God hath given them such proper and suitable means and helps for the obtain∣ment of it. There are many of them scat∣tered up and down the Scriptures, I'le name one or two; that in 1 Joh. 3.14. We know that we are passed from death to life, because we love the Brethren; that is, here is a certain and in∣fallible sign or mark of a New Creature, his loving of good men; that is, if you can re∣ally say, and soundly experience, that you do love a holy man, or gracious men as such, rightly, truly, heartily, with a spiritual and special love, because they are such, and be∣long to Christ; why then you may conclude, that you are in a state of Grace, and passed from death to life. So that if I can make

good the lesser Proposition, the Gospel will prove and make good the first or greater Proposition thus; He that loves the Brethren (that is rightly, and in a true Gospel sense) is passed from death to life, but I do so love the Brethren; therefore I am passed from death to life. Now that which we have to do in the case is this; namely, to get the clear proof of the second part, thus, I do know that I do so love the Brethren, according to the true purport and meaning of that, and o∣ther Texts of Scripture; and then conclude from this Scripture, and others of the like import, that I am passed from death to life; that is, I am Regenerated. (2.) An other sign or mark of Regenerate men laid down in Scripture is this; that they desire the sincere Milk of the Word, that they may grow thereby, 1 Pet. 2.2. Now if I am a Babe in Christ, I do desire the sincere Milk of the Word of God, that I may (not only eat it) but eat it to grow thereby; to grow up in Christ, Grace, and in the practise and fruits of holiness; and if I do so desire the sincere Milk of the Word, then I am (at least) a Babe, or young Child of God. But this is not my work, or pre∣sent design; and therefore do but little more than mention these things; namely, to shew that Unregenerate and Regenerate persons may know the states and conditions wherein they are; the one in and by sin, the other in and by Grace. But I thought good to say a little of it, and but a little, as a prepara∣tive to that which I have further to say, and

which was mainly intended as the subject matter of this Chapter.

Q. What are some of the most certain Signs, Characters, or Marks of Regenerate and Ʋnregene∣rate persons or states?

A. Much hath been said already in open∣ing the work of Regeneration, what it was, and what was contained in it, as you may see in that Chapter; and therefore I shall say the less here: But yet I shall endeavour to present so much unto you, in this Chapter or Head, as shall fully answer and resolve the Question.

First, A Regenerate person hath new life. It is a New Creature, Gal. 6.15. and it is a li∣ving lively Creature; it is not born dead, but alive; it is alive to God, to live unto him in newness of life, Rom. 6.4.10.11. To bring forth fruit unto God, Rom. 7.4. And men are created in Christ Jesus unto good works, Eph. 2.10. It is a heavenly and spiritual Creature, Joh. 3.3.5. exactly fitted to heavenly, and suited to spi∣ritual objects, matters, works, and enjoy∣ments, which the Natural Man is not, now in it's lapsed and depraved state. Christ re∣quires a new life of them; and in order thereunto, creates and forms it in them, Joh. 10.10. 1 Joh. 3.14. This New Creature hath, and it is formed with all it's senses. It hath five Spiritual Senses, in allusion to the five Na∣tural Senses of men; though all of them cannot be so properly and plainly exprest, as the Natural Senses may; it is a perfect New Creature, and therefore must have all it's

parts and senses. I shall open them to you as briefly as I may.

1. The Sense of Seeing. When God made the World, his first days work was Light, Gen. 1.3. Let there be light, and there was light, (says the Text.) So in this new Creation, the first Sense in order that is Created, and doth first appear, is the Sense of Seeing. Before Rege∣neration (as you have heard) we are blind, and in darkness, Matth. 15.14. Eph. 5.8. We know not (to purpose) what we are, not where we are, whose we are, nor where to find true happiness. By sin we put out our own Eyes, quenched our Candle, and drew a thick Cloud before our Eyes, and utterly spoiled them; our spiritual knowledge of heavenly things, and Soul-concernments, is destroyed, and there is none of that Light remaining, to conduct us in acceptable obe∣dience in the way to Heaven. Therefore as it is absolutely necessary that we should have new Eyes, as well as new Light to see withal: So God doth in Regeneration give men new Eyes, and Light, called the Eyes of their Ʋnderstanding, Eph. 1.18. Upon this Er∣rand was Paul sent with the Gospel to the Gentiles, Acts 26.18. and having received this new Spiritual Light, they are ever after cal∣led Children of Light, as they were called before Children of Darkness, Eph. 5.8. 1 Joh. 2.9, 10, 11. In Regeneration they are called out of this Darkness into marvellous Light, 1 Pet. 2.9. This their new sight, light, and power of discern∣ing, is excellent, spiritual, special, and pe∣cullar,

and that in many respects. These are some of them. 1. They can now see the things, and discern the matters and objects they could not see before. 2. Other things, objects and matters, more plainly and clear∣ly, more lovely, precious, excellent, and ac∣ceptable. First, they see the things that they never saw before: As 1. The evil of their Na∣tures. The Light of Nature may shew men many of their actual sins and wickednesses, but not the Source and Fountain of them; namely, our Original, Natural, and Habitual vileness and sinfulness; only Regenerate per∣sons see a far greater odiousness and abomi∣nation in the heart, than in the life; they find by sad experience, that the Fountain of corrupt Nature is more full of Poyson, than any Acts of sin; and the sight of that causes such out-crys in them, O wretched men that we are, who shall deliver us from the Body of this Death? Rom. 7.24. And purge me, (that is, the filthy Spring of the heart) that I may be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than Snow, Psal. 51. For out of the heart proceeds all abomi∣nations, Matth. 15.18, 19. and the Fountain and Root must needs be more full of evil, than the streams and branches are. This the spiritual eye of the New Creature sees; he hath it not by hear-say, but sees it in him∣self, and so does not the Carnal and Natural eye of man.

2. They see and know by their new spiri∣tual light, spiritual sins; yea, they see and know a greater sinfulness in them, in some

sense, than in fleshly sins, and so do not un∣regenerate men. They do indeed see an e∣vil in some external sins, such as are seen and condemned by the Light of Nature, and that by all men; as Drunkenness, Theft, Whore∣dom, Cursing, Railing, Back-biting, Slau∣dering, Swearing, Cheating, Blasphemy, Pride in Words, Carriages, Cloaths, Cruelty, Op∣pression, and the like; but they see not, nor apprehend the horrible evils of Atheism, Spiritual Pride, Self, Vain-glory, Envy, Hy∣pocrisie towards God, Unbelief, Covetous∣ness, corrupting the Worship of God, and his Gospel-Ordinances, Earthly-mindedness, robbing God of his due, departing from God, malice against, and hatred of the Pow∣er of Godliness, and the People of God, and such like heart and spiritual wickednesses. These are little things in an unregenerate mans eye, because he wants a spiritual under∣standing and light to discern what they are; but they are hainous abominations to a spiri∣tual eye, for it knows and sees what they are (in measure) and passes a spiritual judgment on them, as sins more fully and immediatel•• against the Holiness, Grace, and Truth o•• God, and such as God hath declared hi•• greatest indignation and severity against Matth. 23.13. to vers. 24. Joh. 15.22. Joh; 19, 20, 21.

3. They see and know that Life that is a∣bove Sense and Reason, namely, the Life 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Faith; but meer Natural men discern 〈◊〉〈◊〉 this Life: They are only acquainted wi••••

the Life of Sense and Reason, and cannot see one step beyond it, for they are faithless men, 2 Thes. 3.2. But Regenerate men have found a new way to Heaven, (I mean 'tis new to them) and that is the Life of Faith, and Go∣spel-Holiness, and this is now their proper Life; they are called to it, and instructed in it by the Holy Ghost; they live now in a higher Sphere, and walk in another Region; they now see a singular Excellency and tran∣scendent My stery in this New Life, in the ob∣jects, matters, and ends of it. They see their former folly and madness, in living such low, base, and sensual lives, and look on their new Life as far more precious, high, and honour∣able, and own it as their proper and pecu∣liar Life, and endeavour to conform them∣selves to the Will of God in it, who hath appointed this life for them, and command∣ed them to live it, Rom. 1.17. Heb. 10.38. And Paul tells us, that he, and other New Creatures, did live this life, 2 Cor. 5.7. Gal. 1.20. But unregenerate men are strangers, yea, enemies to this life. At the best, they say, how can these things be? and judge Re∣generate men to be under strong delusions, for ta••king of, and pretending to live the Life of Faith.

4. They see and know the new and living way to God the Father, which they were unac∣quainted with before, Heb. 10.19, 20. but so do not unregenerate men. They may hear of it, and have some general and confused Notions of the Doctrine of it, but they do

neither see nor understand what indeed it is, or what it means, because of the blindness of their minds, Eph. 4. They know only the old Natural way to God and Heaven, according to their Natural Principles, but wanting spi∣ritual eyes, and Sunning light in their hearts, they are real strangers to it continually, Rom. 3. But the Light of Christ in the hearts of Regenerate men, finds it out, leads the•• to, and directs them to walk in it, 2 Cor. 4.6. Isa. 30.20, 21. but unregenerate men do stum∣ble at it; they know not whether they go, because darkness hath blinded their eyes, 1 Joh. 2.11. But the path of the Just is as the shining light, that shining more and more unto the perfect day, Pro. 4.18.

5. They see and know (in measure) what Communion with God is, or what it is to have Communion with God; they might hear of such a thing before, but now they know wha•• it means; They are called into the Fellowship of Christ, 1 Cor. 1.9. 1 Joh. 1.3. It is their pro∣mised priviledge and blessing, and they have the real experimental knowledge of it, Jo••. 14.21.23. But unregenerate men have i•• not, know it not; it is none of their privi∣ledge, they desire, they chuse it not: They are in Fellowship with the World, and their Lusts, and are well satisfied and contented therewith. But I may not inlarge.

6. They see and know the Power of Godli∣ness, 2 Tim. 3.5. The Word and Spirit of Christ hath fallen and wrought on and i•• them with Power and saving Efficacy,

brought them into, and set up Godliness in power in them, 1 Thes. 1.5. Rom. 1.16. Their dearts and Souls are subdued to it, and swallowed up in it; the Form of Godliness is a poor empty thing to them, without the power of it in their heart. But it is not so with unregenerate men; they see not any Re∣ligion or Godliness beyond the form or out∣side; it is not formed or set up in their hearts; and therefore see little or nothing in Religion, Godliness, or Religious mat∣ters. But unregenerate men do see and find a glorious Excellency in it; it is exceeding precious, lovely, and profitable to them: They see that worth and Excellency in it, as to cause them to love and honour it, to prize, value, and esteem it, as worthy of all accep∣tation; to cherish, keep, and augment it, to improve and practise it, and to walk worthy of it, to the glory of the Giver of it.

7. They see and know the vanity and no∣thingness of the Creature, and that they are not indeed such things as they verily thought them to be before their Regeneration. Their Opinion of them is changed, it is now quite another thing. Before they looked on them, and their having and enjoying them, as their portion and happiness: Oh, thought they, what a brave thing is it to be rich? what happy men are they who have abundance of riches, honours, pleasures? they doted on them as on their Gods and Lovers, and their very imaginations of them ravished their hearts; but now they see their folly, and

how they were mistaken and deluded in their judgments and imaginations. They now see them to be but vanity and vexation of spirit, in comparison of Christ, Grace, and Heavenly things, Eccl. 1.2. Phil. 3.19, 20. 'Tis true, they do not now simply contemn them, but own them, and use them as Gods Mercies, thank and praise him for them; but compa∣ratively only, with Christ, Grace, and Hea∣venly things. Now they see that they are but left-hand and foot-stool Mercies; that they are not worth the having, nor coveting after, but with and in Christ, Grace, Pardon, and Holiness, and in order to their living to God with them, and enjoying of him in them. But unregenerate men see them with other eyes, and they have other thoughts of them. They account them their good things, as the only or chiefest good, their great por∣tion and happiness, and accordingly they act, walk, and steer their course; follow after them, and greedily pursue them, Luk. 16.25. Rom. 8.5. For indeed whatever they do pro∣fess, or pretend to the contrary, they do not see, nor mind any higher good.

8. They see and know the vanity and emp∣tiness of that which they did bear upon, and glory in, namely, their own Righteousness. They once thought that they had that in them, and such works were performed by them, as would commend them unto God, and in∣cline his heart to love and pity them, to ac∣cept and save them. But now they see they were deceived, that all their Righteousnesses are

but filthy rags, dirt, and dung; and that they are so far from being accepted, or accounted of in Heaven, as that they are matters of contempt and loathing, Phil. 3.7, 8. Isa. 64.6. Matth. 23. So that that which was their glory, is now their shame. Their Gay Cloa∣thing are now meer Rags in their account; Why? Because they see with other eyes, and by a better light than they did before. They see they were building themselves on a San∣dy Bottom, which would have sunk under them, and they and it must have perished to∣gether, had they not been taken off it by the power of Regenerating Grace. But now this is all they have to glory in, who are Profes∣sors of Godliness, in an unregenerate state, namely, God, I thank thee, I am not as other men; I fast twice in the week; I give Tythes of all that I possess, &c. Luke 18.9, 10, 11, 12. Phil. 3.7.

9. They see and know the Lord Jesus Christ, and his Gospel-will, revealed in Scrip∣ture; they are spiritualized, and made spiri∣tual men by Regeneration, and thereby are enabled to judge all, or of all spiritual things (in measure) 1 Cor. 2.15. They heard of Christ and his Will before, but now they see and know him, and it. But more of this anone.

10. They see and know in measure, the great work of real Gospel-Obedience, what it is, & how to be performed; and also, the holy Ghost his teachings, helpings, quickenings, and comfor∣tings, in and to their Gospel-Obedience. They see wide difference between meer doing of that which is good, and that with and by meer natu∣ral

helps and principles, and that which is real Gospel Obedience of the heart in it, Ro. 6.17. as like∣wise the Spirits helping their Infirmities, Ro. 8.26. But Unregenerate men know nothing of these matters. But I have done with this. These are some, and but some of the things, mat∣ters, and objects, which by regenerating light, they are enabled to see and discern; as you that are regenerated can witness. Now then, try your selves by what hath been al∣ready said, of seeing, or of the seeing and knowing sense.

Secondly, as Regenerate Persons can see, and do know the matters and things they saw not before; so secondly, they are enabled to see and understand such spiritual things and matters which they had some knowledge of before their Regeneration, more clearly, plainly, distinctly, experimentally, and power∣fully, then they did or could before. For they had only a dim, weak, and general natu∣ral, and spiritual light, and sight before. They did see, but understood not what they saw, Isa. 6.9. They are like Men or Children that see some rare and pretious Jewels, or Cor∣dials, but know not what they are, neither understand the worth, excellency, and use∣fulness of them, as Artificers do, or like such as hear Musick in a strange Tone and Lan∣guage, they know not what it means; so at the best their sight and knowledge is an un∣certain, weak, and unedifying knowledge. Their sight and knowledge of these matters, profit them not. It lies idle and useless in the

head, but is of no advantage to the heart. It brings them not to the things they see, to close up with them, and make them their choice, to apply and rightly to appropriate them unto themselves. No, but they still lay at a distance from their hearts, and their hearts from them. They see no transcendent worth and excellency in them, to cause them indeed to desire them, and with self-denial to make them their own. But they are enabled by Regeneration to see and understand Spiritual things spiritually, 1 Cor. 2.13.14. They have now Eyes to see withal, Ephes. 1.18. and a new light to see by, namely, The Sun of Righteousness, Mal. 4.2. The Glory of the Lord is risen upon them, Isa 60.1. But before they saw with their old eyes, though it may be they were a little anoin∣ted with some common spiritual Light still, yet they were but their old natural Eyes, or sense of seeing, and they had only Candle light to see spiritual things by; But Rege∣nerate persons are called out of darkness, into marvellous light, 1 Pet. 2.9. The light of the know∣ledge of the Glory of God shines into their hearts, 2 Cor. 4.6. enabling them with a measure of clear discerning, what they are by Nature, and what they are made by the Grace of Christ; how they ought to live in this world, and what their duties are, the workings of their own lusts, and the Temptations of the Devil and World; the proneness and incli∣nation of the heart to sin, and close up with Temptations, and the continual need they have of Divine assistance and protection;

what need they have of the Mercy of God, and of the Blood and Righteousness of Christ.

Moreover, their new light directs and leads them to Jesus Christ, to own, receive, and ac∣cept him for their Lord and Saviour, for their King, Priest, and Prophet; for their Head and Ruler, their Teacher and Lawgiver: and it is powerful to lead and perswade them out of themselves, to take up in Christ only, Col. 2.6. Joh. 1.12. Psal. 73.25, 26. Phil. 3.7.8. and it is powerful to take off their hearts and hands from sin, self-righteousness, and self-ability, from self-boasting, or glorying in self, and from the enticing objects of this world. This new Divine Spiritual Light, sees such a transcen∣dent and singular beauty, excellency, and loveliness in the person, love and Grace of Christ, as to draw the Mind, Affections, and whole Soul to him, to lodge them in him, take up with him, greatly to love him, and cleave unto him; to desire him and his Grace, and to chuse and apply it to them∣selves. To adore and admire him, to honour and exalt him, to live and dye with him and for him; to live to him, and make it their work and business to please him; to speak well of him, and to commend him, his Love and Grace to the acceptance and admiration of o∣thers, Cant. 5.9 ult. so likewise they see a de∣sirable excellency and loveliness in the wills and commands of Christ, in their duty and Gospel obedience to him, so as to fall in love with them and it; so as to observe and do what he commands, and that because it is his holy

Will, Gracious and Soveraign Pleasure and Appointment that they should so do: yea, and they can in measure discern when they please him, and when they do not, Heb. 11.5. Besides, Regenerate persons have an experi∣mental knowledge; they taste, feel, and enjoy a part of the Heavenly matters which they see; they have the earnest, and first Fruits of them in their hands; they have a part in possession, namely, of Christ, his Grace, Spirit, Truth, and Heaven; and they begin to see those things more distinctly and particularly; they can dis∣cern one thing from another, and more and more look into the nature, property, use, and end of them, and how to use and improve them to the glory and praise of God, and to the comfort and edification of their own Souls.

Secondly, another of these new spiritual senses, is Tasting. The natural Man hath the senses of seeing, and tasting things that are suit∣able to him, so hath the spiritual man or new creature. O taste and see that the Lord is graci∣ous, Psal. 34.8. And if you have tasted that the Lord is gracious, 1 Pet. 2.3. It is a spiritual sense or taste, and they are spiritual things that it can taste and relish. I shall briefly name some of them, to help you in your tryal, or in the proving and examining your state and condi∣tions by them.

1. The word of God, Gospel Precepts and Promises. The one declaring what God and Christ the Mediator, and holy Ghost, hath and will do for us: the other, what is our Duty, and what we should do for God. These words

of God are exceeding sweet and pleasant to the spiritual taste of new Creatures, Psal. 19.10. They are (says David) sweeter than the honey, or honey Comb. So in the 119. Psal. And Jeremy tells us the same Chap. 15.16. Thy words were found, and I did eat them, and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoycing of my heart. So is the word of God to thee if thou art a new Crea∣ture, especially at sometimes, but it is not so to others. Christ calls his Fathers will, his food. My Meat (says he) is to do the will of him that sent me; and man liveth not by bread onely, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God, Matth. 4. Well, what canst thou say of and to this for thy self?

2. The good Counsels, Exhortations, Admonitions, and Reproofs of Christian friends, and Resolutions, are sweet to thy taste also, 1 Sam. 25.32, 33. verses, compared with the foregoing verses; And David said, blessed be thou of the Lord, and blessed be thy advice. Oh! how sweet was a Womans Counsel and Admonition unto David, although he was much her Superiour. It is the same (in measure) with thee, if thou art a Rege∣nerate person. Oh! thou wilt receive, relish, and eat such friendly words of Counsel and Advice, and bless God for them, and not quar∣rel and censure thy friends for what they do, but receive and eat it as sweet and wholesome food for thy Soul, and give God and them thanks.

3. Ordinances. The Gospel Ordinances, and holy Appointments of Christ, will be, and are indeed sweeter to thy Taste than any worldly

thing. The Ordinances of Preaching, and hearing the Gospel, are as the Gospel to thee, sweeter than hony to thy mouth, Psal. 119.103. So are the other Ordinances to, the Lords Supper, Baptism, Prayer, singing of Psalms, and Church-Fellow-ship. The Order and Discipline of Christ in the Church, and all other his Gospel appoint∣ments.

4. The Lord Jesus Christ is most Sweet unto their Tasts. As he is the fairest of ten Thousands, and altogether Lovely, Cant. 5.10. ult. so he is the sweetest and most pleasant of all things to the Tast; yea, altogether sweet; if his fruit be so, much more is he himself; But his fruit, the dropping of his Grace, is so, Cant. 2.3. How much more sweet must him∣self be unto Believers, who is the Root and fountain of all those drops or friuts, Zach. 13.1. Revel. 22.16. Christ is the desire of all these new senses, as he is said to be of all Nations; Habak. 2.7. And he is most desirable to the Tast; He is the bread of Life, that came down from Heaven; Which is meat indeed: for he that eateth of this bread, shall live for ever, Joh. 6.48.50.51.55. Christ is the most pretious, desi∣rable, sweet bread, that ever any did eat; It hath such a pleasant relish, savour, and com∣forting quality, it doth so refresh and cherish the Soul of a Child of God, as that he greatly disires it, longs after it, Covets to get and keep it, and (as it were) impatiently seeks and waits for it: It is so good as that it will never surfeit him; all other things how good and pleasant soever they be, are nothing to him

without this. This is the great dish that makes the Word, Ordinances, and all other dishes, a feast indeed; 'Tis that which relish∣es and makes all other food sweet, nourish∣ing, excellent, and delightful. Hence they cry out in the fullnesse of all other things (if they find not Christ there) Oh! where is Christ, let him come into my Garden, my Soul, the best and only dish that should feast us and satisfy us, is not here, till he come, I cannot eat, nor be Satisfyed, Cant. 4. ult. Saith a gracious heart. Let Christ be my bread, and I shall be fully satisfyed, he is my all, in all things, Coll. 3.11. and without him I cannot, may not, will not be satisfyed. Oh! give me Christ in all, or I dye, for my Soul will Wither and famish, whatever else I have, whatever else I feed upon. But Christ alone (if it so please him) will satisfy me, though he give me no∣thing else.

5. Experiences are sweet and pleasant to the Taste; They are invaluable mercies: when new Creatures can bring forth out of their Treasures new and old experiences, and say this and that I have found; This Assistance I have found in such a duty, and that comfort I have found in that duty; In such a strait I found such and such seasonable helps, supports and deliverances; When I was sad, I found God comforting me; In doubt of my state, I found God saying to me, be of good chear, thy Sins are forgiven thee. When my heart was hardened by Sin, he melted it, and when much straitened and shut up, he enlarged it; when the guilt

of my Sins lay heavy on my Conscience, he applyed the blood of the everlasting Cove∣nant, Heb. 13.20 and so relieved and eased me, and when I thought he was angry with me, and had shut out my Prayers, he answered them. Oh how sweet are these and such like experiences to the Tast of new creatures. I could give you an account of many more had I time.

This spiritual sense hath a thirsting appetite. It is always with accompanied a hungering and thirsting Appetite after all Spiritual and Hea∣venly things that he knows, or thinks may be good for him; he hungers and thirsts after Christ, his Blood, Grace, Righteousness, Ordinances, Word, Experiences, Heaven, and the presence of Christ; and when he findes them, Oh how sweet, comfortable and plea∣sing are they? Then he saith, now is my Soul satisfyed as with marrow and fatness, my Soul shall praise thee with joyful Lips, Psal. 63.5.

2. As he Tasts, and hath a hungring and thirsting appetite after Spiritual things; so it loaths and nausiates the Sins, vanities and follies that he once delighted in, and fed himself withal: he can neither tast nor digest them; they are no waies toothsome to him, but odious, hateful, and abominable; They are now as filthy poyson to him; As meat wherwith a man hath surfeited himself, is to him, so are these Sins and vanities unto a new Creature; They are all like nasty stink∣ing Carrion to him; he abhorrs the sight, smell and taste of them, and cannot endure

they should be nigh him. The very thoughts of them are grievous to him, Psal. 119. Ro••. 7. They shall be no more his food, but loath∣ing: They were never so sweet, as now they are bitter to him, 1 Jer. 2.19. They were once his pleasant Bread, but now his bitter Poyson; They were his Suger and Honey, wherewith he was delighted, but now they are Gall and Wormwood to him; His stomack raises up against them and he can no more endure them, nor be reconciled to them.

Thirdly, Feeling. Feeling is another Sense of the new Creature; For as the natural man hath the Sense of feeling what doth touch, or burden it, so hath the new Creature the like Sense too. The new creatures feeling sense is sensible of, and burdened with many evils, weights and oppressions, that he is afflicted withal. But first, not with the Yoke and Service of Christ. The Old man indeed is greatly burde∣ned with it, and complaines sadly of the tedi∣ousness and wearisomness of it, Mal. 1.13. and when will the Sabboth be gone, Amos 8.5. But the new Creature is not afflicted with, nor weary of it; but findes it and accounts it as the Scripture reports it to be, namely, an Easy and light Yoke, Math. 11. ult. And her way are ways of pleasantness, Pro. 3.17. And his com∣mandments are not grievous, 1 Joh. 5.3. Yea, they find that in keeping of them, or the right observing of them, is great reward, Psal. 19.

2. Neither is the Chastising and afflicting will of God, as such, their burden, or the real bur∣den

of the new Creature. For that is swal∣lowed up in the will of God, and that over∣ballances all, because it is the will of God who loves him, and he loves God. It is mat∣ter of joy to him that the will of God is done, although he suffer under it. And the new crea∣ture knows that it is but a Fatherly chastise∣ment; The fruit of great love, Care, wisdom and Faithfulness; not to hurt him, but profit him; not to wound, but to heal the man; not to destroy, but to save him, Rom. 8.28. Heb. 12. Isa. 27.

2. But in the second place, the new Crea∣ture is sensible of, afflicted, burdened and oppressed with other matters. As 1. his Lusts and Sins. These are the heavy burdens that presse him down, and makes him cry out (with Paul and David) O wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from the Body of this Death, Rom. 7.24. And with Da∣vid, There is no rest in my Bones, by reason of my Sin, Psal. 38. and who can understand his errors, Cleans thou me from my Sins, Psal. 19. and Psal. 51. There are many of them of his unbelief, earthly-mindedness, covetousness, desires af∣ter worldly things, hypocrisy, formality, and too often indifferency and lukewarmness of Spirit in the worship of God. His deadness and carelesness. Robbing God and his soul of their due. Aptness and Proness of heart to close up and fall in with temptation to Sin. His Passion, Anger, Wrath, Peevishness, Va∣nity, Frothyness, Carnal Security, depart∣ing of the heart from God and Duty, and an a∣versness to it; to envy and grudge at others

prosperity, and to revenge wrongs or injuries received from men, and whatever other evils 〈◊〉〈◊〉 finds the heart enclined to; so likewise its want of spiritualness of heart, freedom and cheerful∣ness in the worship and service of God. Also its hardness of heart, & unprofitableness under the means of Grace, and unusefulness in the world. These and many other lusts and sins are its bur∣dens, they oppress & press him down. These are the Mountains that lay on the back of the new Creature, and it earnestly longs for, and desires deliverance from them all. Moreover, they are greatly burdened with the Treachery, and deceitfulness of their hearts; their fears, doubts, and distractions in duty, their want of heavenly mindedness, love to God, delight∣ing in him, and his service. They are bur∣dened, and smart under the sense of the im∣purity of their hearts, and great insensibility of Mercies, and because God is not honoured and glorified by them as he should be. They are burdened, because their Lusts are so strong and powerful, as that when they would do good, they cannot; And as they are burden∣ed with these and many other Evils of their own, so they feel a great weight in others sins likewise. Rivers of waters run down their Eyes, because other men are Transgressors of Gods I am, Psal. 119.136. And (says Paul) who is weak, and I am nor weak, 2 Cor. 11.29. And ye are puffed up, and have not rather Mourned, 1 Cor. 5.2. You should have been afflicted in Spirit for your Brothers sin, because God was disho∣noured, and his Gospel Blasphemed, his Peo∣ple

shamed, and the world stumbled by reason of it. Now they are burdened, wounded, and bleed under the sense of wicked mens pro∣phaneness, debauchery, and contempt of the Gospel of Christ. But they are mostly wounded with the evils and miscarriages of Professours, and such as they hope are the People of God. Their Pride, Worldliness, Frothyness, Back-bitings, negligence and carelesness in the matters of God, their censorious and rash Judgings of one another, their want of Love, Kindness, and Charity to each other, and their brawlings and conten∣tions one with another, and their coldness and lukewarmness in Religion, with other their sins, do deeply wound and pierce them to the heart, and that because they are a shame and dishonour to their Father, Husband, and Head, his Name and People, and because him whom they love and honour, is not glorifyed in and by them. And further, as they are burdened and wounded with other sins and miscarriages, so likewise, with the Reproaches and other suf∣ferings of good Men. Who is afflicted and I burn not, (says Paul) 2 Cor. 11.29. Their Brethrens Bonds are their Bonds, Heb. 13.3. their Re∣proaches, Pains, Losses, Poverty, Weaknesses, and Persecutions, are their own. They are in Pain, Bonds, Poverty, &c. with them; They have Spirits to rejoyce with them that rejoyce, and weep with them that weep, Rom. 12.15, 16. And it must needs be so, because they are Fellow-Members of the same Spiritual Body, joyned to Christ their Head; and if they are not sym∣pathizers with, and Fellow-feelers of each

others Afflictions, it is certain they are not living, but dead Members, whatever they profess themselves to be, or pretend to, 1 Cor. 12.25, 26, 27. (read and ponder that Scrip∣ture.)

New Creatures have a feeling of many other Burdens also. The Temptations of the Devil, snares and allurements of the world, are their heavy and grievous Burdens. They grown under them, and earnestly desire to be deliver∣ed from them. They find by woful experi∣ence, that the Devil shoots his Fiery Darts at them, and labours Night and Day by his Wiles, to draw them from God, and to en∣tangle them in Sin, Eph. 6. They know that he hath his Devices, or Methods, 2 Cor. 2.11. and that he doth like a Lyon, walk up and down, seeking whom he may devour, 1 Pet. 5.8. and therefore are fain to be always on their guard to keep Watch and Ward against him Nigh•• and Day, that he surprize them not, and dra•• or tempt them to Sin. They know that he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a subtle and strong Enemy, and how he ha•••• prevailed over good men, and caused them 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sin. As David, Peter, and others, and therefore they are afraid of him, knowing their dange•• and the evils he may stir and move them unto if he should prevail. The World likewise namely, the good things of it, are in so•• sense burthensome to him; not as they 〈◊〉〈◊〉 good things, but as they are powerful to S••∣duce and insnare the mind and affections, draw them from God and Heavenly thing To carnalize the Mind, deaden or cool 〈◊〉〈◊〉

Affections, and take off the Spiritual taste, fa∣vour, and relish of Heavenly things; the heart from duty, and serious striving to enter is at the straight Gate, Luk. 13.24. The world is like Pitch to our evil natures, we can hard∣ly touch it without being defiled with it; like coals of fire in the bosome, that will burn us, and like a hedge of Thorns that will prick and tear us, as experience shews. The Lord Jesus knows how dangerous and pernicious the good things of this world would be to his disciples Souls, and therefore charges them to take heed, and beware of them, lest at any time, (Mark it) lest at any time you be insnared with them, Luk. 21.34.

2. As the feeling sense is sensible of smarts, and cries out under the burdens and weights of these evils, so, it is deeply sensible of the great love and Grace of Christ to him; he is heartily affected with his Rich mercy, Eph: 2.••. and the unsearchable Riches of Gods Grace to him. Evil and good, Grace and Sin, affect him; he is not onely deeply sensible of what he is, and hath done to God, but what God is to, and hath done for him; he is affected with the best things as well as the worst; with matters of joy, as well as sorrow; he hath his Eye as well on the bright side of the Cloud, as on the dark side of it; and he is impressed with Gods goodness and holyness, as well as with his own badness and vileness; he takes in one as well as another, and both make powerful impression on his feeling Sense. The same Sense is capable of joy and

Sorrow, and there are in his view, suitable objects and matters for both; and he is real∣ly sensible of both. But I hasten.

Fourthly, Hearing. New Creatures have a new Sense of Hearing. The hearing Sense is appointed and given to men, to receive and take in words spoken, without which they know not what is spoken to them. Now as men have the natural sense of hearing, so Regenerate Per∣sons have a new spiritual sense of hearing given them in Regeneration; until then they are said to be Deaf, Psal. 58.4. Isa. 42.18, 19. al∣though they had not lost their natural Sense of hearing; yet the Scripture saith, they were Deaf; why, because they had not Spiritual Ears to hear; hence the Lord Jesus (speaking to the Asian Churches) bids such as had Eares to hear, what the Spirit spake unto them; Revel. 2. and 3. Chapters. Clearly im∣plying that there were some among them, that had not this Spiritual Sense of hearing the Voice of the holy Spirit, but that there were others that had it. And the Prophet tells the Jews that there were some that had Eares, but were Deaf, Isa. 43.8. that is, they had the natural, but not the Spiritual sense of hearing the voice of God by his Prophets. This Spiri∣tual hearing sense imports, not onely a hear∣ing and taking in the words or matters they hear, but also understanding them, and re∣ceiving them into the understanding, will, and affection, Ezek. 40.3.4. 2 Thes. 2.10. Pro. 7.1. Pro. 10 14. They are ready and swift to hear, Jam. 1.19.21. Let Christ speak to

them what he will, they can and will hear him; Speak Lord, for thy servant heares, 1 Sam. 3.2. is the language of his heart; and Lord what wilt thou have me to do, Acts. 9. doth God or good men, instruct, admonish, exhort, reprove, charge, rebuke them, their Eares and hearts are open and ready to hear and receive it, to love and understand it; to keep and practice it, or to improve all to the will of God. Re∣generate Persons are the good ground hearers; Luk. 8.15. Math. 13. They have Eares to hear, hearts to receive and understand what is re∣vealed to them; yea, to keep and hold it fast; convert the word into profit, and turn all in∣to the practice of Godlyness. They, and they only have learnt the mystery and Spiritual Art of hearing: They are the only Wise, Seri∣ous, Humble, Diligent, Circumspect, Careful, Reverend, Watchful, Sincere, Profitable and good Hearers. They are taught to please and honour God better, and advantage their own Souls in and by hearing. They are the Persons (and none but they) who hear in hearing; who do truely and faithfully endea∣vour to hear Christ, in hearing of men; and to hear that voice behind them, saying, this is the way, walk ye in it; which is promised in Isa: 30.20.21. They are the men who do indeed make blessed earnings of hearing, and who do unfainedly intend, design and carry on right, high and holy ends in hearing, namely, to know Christ, his Will, Grace, Spirit, Benefits, Covenant, and Promises; to know themselves, their Sins, Deceits, and Errors; their increase

or decrease in Grace and practical Godliness, and to know how they ought to believe and carry themselves towards God and men in all conditions, States and Relations, better, more clearly and Spiritually, that so they may walk worthy of the Lord, unto all well-pleasing, and be fruitful in every good work; adorn the Gospel of Christ, and beautify their holy profession. These are the men who hear, that they may be cleansed and washed, that they may be quickened to, and strengthened in their duty, and that their lusts may be destroyed by the word of Grace, Joh. 15.3. Joh. 17.17. Eph. 5.25.26. 2 Cor. 10.4.5. And that they may, as in the Lords own way and appointment, meet with Christ, and Christ with them, to express their dependance on, and subjection to him, and that they may be filled with all the fulness of God, Eph. 3.19. This is the hearing Ear, and understanding heart, that is rarely to be found in the world.

Fifthly, Smelling. In the natural body there is the Sense of Smelling, so there is in the new Creature also; Christ is full of sweet smells and Savours, fitted and suited to a believers new sense; and Christ hath provided for, and given them a sense capable of receive∣ing and resenting it, which adds much to their strength and Comfort, and renders the Lord Jesus more sweet, lovely, and acceptable to them. For the more senses they have to draw and take in of Christs Person, Grace, and lovelyness to themselves, the more they get from Christ, and the more pleasing and

desirable he must needs be to them; had the patural man only two or three senses, to ap∣prehend and take in objects, and the good of them, his life would not be so comfortable; because as then, many of the Creatures would be vain and useless to him, so he would live without the use and comfort of them that are suited to the senses he wants, and which he cannot receive nor take comfort and delight in, without them. And men are naturally best pleased, and most satisfyed with variety of ob∣jects and matters. It is much more so in Spiri∣tual and heavenly matters and things, Spiri∣tual men, love and delight much in heaven∣ly varieties, and therefore to delight and sa∣tisfy them, to endear their Souls to Christ, and incourage them in their Duty to him, he hath given them many senses or subjects ca∣pable of apprehending and taking in variety of heavenly matters and things; and that is not all, but he hath also graciously provided all suitable varieties for them, and presents them freely to their acceptance. Thus Christ is to them, a sweet smelling Savour, Eph. 5.2. his death was so to God, and his Person, Gra∣ces, and Benefits, are so to them, Cant. 5.13.2.13. Their Persons love and obedience are a sweet smelling savour to Christ, Cant. 4.10.11. And so is Christ unto them, Cant. 1.3. and it is powerful to excite and draw forth their strongest and dearest love to Christ, Because of the savour of this good Oyntments; therefore do the Virgins love thee. And as it excites and draws forth their love to Christ, so it gladdens and

refreshes the hearts of new Creatures. Psal. 45.8. All thy Garments smell of Myrth, &c. whereby they have made thee glad. Thus I have briefly run over, and presented you a few considera∣tions of the New Creature, his spiritual sen∣ses, what they are, and of their nature, work, use, and end; to help you to make a true Judgment of your selves, whether you are new Creatures indeed, or only in name and pretence.

And be assured of this, that if thou art in∣deed a Regenerate person, thou mayest in some degree, (especially at sometimes) find these spiritual senses in thee. And if thou canst find them in any degree in thee, thou mayest conclude, that thou art a Child of God, and really Regenerate. For it is cer∣tain that unregenerate persons have them not in them, but are real strangers, if not Ene∣mies to them; and such as regard them not, neither do they find them in any degree or measure in themselves, they are in an unrege∣nerate state and condition. And that they have not these senses, is evident; for they are dead, blind, hard, and wholly carnal, as hath been shewed already. And so much of the first Mark or Character of a new Creature, I shall briefly dispatch the rest, and then pro∣ceed to other heads propounded.

Secondly, If thou art a new Creature indeed, thou hast been brought forth, and born again in pain, and with grief and trouble of Soul. Every natu∣ral Child is brought forth with sorrow and pain, Joh. 16. and every n••w-born Babe is brought

forth with sorrow and pain. The Lord Je∣sus hath been in Travail, Sorrow, and Pain for them that are and shall be regenerated, to purchase their new Birth, Isa. 53.3.11. he had the hardest labour and strugling for thee; he was in the greatest and most dreadful Agony and anguish of Soul that could be, to procure thy Regeneration and new State; he had many a woful and grievous throw; many a sigh and groan, and he sweat many drops of Blood for thee, when he was Sacrificing his life to Divine Justice for thy Redemption and Sanctification, to Redeem thee from thy old state of Sin and Misery, Luk. 22.44. Math. 26. and to make thee one of his peculiar people, Tit. 2.14. Eph. 5. And as he hath been in Pain and Travail for thee, so (if thou art Re∣generated) he hath given thee a small Taste of his Pains and Sorrows in thy birth. Thou hast not been brought forth without sighs, groans, throws, Pains and Sorrows, no, but thou hast found much Strugling, and many pangs of heart. It is true, that all Children are not born with the same degree and mea∣sure of pains and sorrows. Some Women feel more, some less, in their Travail, but all have some. In Sorrow thou shalt bring forth Children, says God, Gen. 3.16. so he says of all sinners that he will Regenerate, (if grown persons) in sorrow shalt thou be Regenerated, and made a New Creature. Thou shalt taste and feel what an evil and bitter thing it is to be a sinner, and under my Wrath, the dominion of Lusts and the Devil; That thou hast forsaken

me the Fountain of living Waters, Jer. 2. Rebel∣led against me, thrown off my Yoke, and o∣beyed the Devil rather than me. Thou shalt know that I have observed all thy contemp∣tuous slightings of my Son, my Grace and Mercy, and causing me to stand, wait, and knock for thee, and thoud'st not hearken to me. When God Regenerates men, he lets loose Sin, Guilt, Devil, his Law and Venge∣ance on the Souls and Consciences of such for a time, and the Spirit of God, who is the great Agent in Regenerating them, Joh. 3.5. makes himself as a Spirit of Bondage to them, and seemingly to their own sense, puts them into, and leaves them in a far worse case and condition than they were in before, Rom. 8.15. so that now their sinful peace, carnal security, vain and foolish hopes and confidences are all broken and shattered, and they are left to the wide world to shift for themselves, and that when they are encompassed about with fears and miseries, and have none to comfort them, but are like men shut up in doubts, fears, and distractions, not knowing what to do, nor what to think of their conditions. They are condemned by the Law, and their own Consciences, and they see themselves bound over to answer for all their Trans∣gressions at the Judgment Seat of God. They see themselves in straits and miseries, and know not how to help themselves, neither can they find any that will or can; for they look upon God as their Enemy, and are afraid of him. This makes them cry out, O, What

shall we do to be saved? How, or by whom shall we be delivered? Acts 2.37. Acts 16.29, 30. Now their Hearts, Heads, and Souls are in travelling pains and pangs, greatly longing to be delivered, like men that are sinking into the bottom of the Sea, and never like to be saved. Thus they are brought forth in pain and Sorrow. And God hath many wise and grati∣ous ends in dealing thus with them, which in due time they shall see, and bless him for. For by bringing forth the new Creature, thus he greatly imbitters Sin to them, shews them their own vileness, weakness, and wretchedness, and causes them to loath themselves, and hate their Sin, endears and commends Jesus Christ, his Grace and love to them, and stirs them up to seek after him, and cleave to him the more se∣riously and heartily.

Thirdly, The new Creature is of a humble, meek and lowly nature; it is like the Father and Au∣thour of it, the Lord Jesus; he was meek and lowly in heart and life, Math. 11.29. Christ was of a Lamb-like, Dove-like nature, Spirit and Carriage in his life and Death. In his life, Joh. 1.29. Behold the Lamb of God. In his death, un∣der exceeding great contemps, & innumerable Injuries; he was as a Lamb, Acts. 8.32. so his Saints are often called his Sheep and Lambs; My sheep hear my voice, Joh. 10.27. and his Lambs, Joh. 21.15. so he calls them his Doves, C••nt. 2.14. Cant. 5.2. and so they call Christ, Cant. 5.12. now, who knows not these Crea∣tures to be meek, lowly, and humble; and because they are generally known so to be and

are so in their own nature, the Lord Jesus sets out and shews us what his new Creatures are in their natures and carriages by them; and they are such indeed, or they are not the real Sheep, Lambs, and Doves of the Lord Jesus; for all his People participate of his nature; they are of Poor, Meek, Humble, and lowly Spirits, Words, and Carriages, in measure like their head Christ, how Proud and Lofty so e∣ver they were before. Christs Regenerating Grace is certainly Soul-humbling, Spirit-meekening, and Heart-debasing Grace where∣ever it is. It Turns Lyons into Lambs, Wolves into Sheep, and Ravenous Birds into sweet Doves; For they are Regenerated with the divine nature, 2 Pet. 1.4. and by the Spirit of Christ, Rom. 8.9. and they are said to be, as he is, in the world, 1 Joh. 4.17.

And as they are so by nature, or there new birth, so likewise by their Light and conside∣ration. Their habits are improved and strength∣ened by their own endeavours, as by Gods own Proper means. 1. They see so much of their own Vileness, Wretchedness, Nakedness, and Impotency, as to make them loath them∣selves; and they see so much of their former and past Transgressions and Sins, as to cause them to abhor and condemn themselves, Job. 42. They do now see themselves and ways, with another kind of light and judgment than they did before, so that now their Self-justifying is turn'd into Self-condemning; and their high thoughts, into low and Self-de∣basing thoughts of themselves. They were ne∣ver

so high in their own Eyes, as now they are low; and never so worthy and sufficient, as now they are unworthy, and nothing, Phill. 3.7.2. They see (in measure) the holyness and Righteousness of God and his Laws, and the great unsuitableness of their hearts and wayes unto them; and the sight and Sense thereof, greatly humbles and debases them, Isa. 6.5. Job. 42.5.6. And as they are hum∣bled and debased at the sight and knowledg of these things, so also their serious pondering and considering them doth further shame, humble, and abuse them. They do consider, and lay these things to heart; and do not content themselves with the bare knowing and apprehending them as true; no, but they search into them, and apply them to themselves; Thus and thus am I; This and this have I done, and this and that is my Sin and wicked∣ness, my evil and misery; and this and much more have I merrited, of the wrath and dread∣ful vengeance of God, by my wickedness and rebellion, by my often refusing his Yoke, and rejecting his grace and favour proferred to me in and by the Gospel; so likewise the con∣sideration of the holyness and Righteousness of God, and his Laws and ways, which I have despised, slighted and set at nought, Pro. 1.24.25. and which I find I cannot close up with, nor conform unto. Oh I have robbed him of his due, and am likely to do so still, be∣cause of the naughtiness of my heart, and wickedness of my nature, which is most loath∣some and abominable throughout, Ezek. 16.

Rom. 3. 1 Cor. 6. Tit. 3. I have been vile and abo∣minable in the pure Eyes of God, and di•• love to have it so. I would not believe that God and his Lawes were so holy and righte∣ous, nor that I was so vile and hateful, as now I see I am. By these and other such consi∣derations, their meek and humble natures are strengthned and improved against the surg∣ing Waves of Pride, and self-exalting that is in them, and that strives to overcome and conquer them.

And as Regenerate persons are meek, hum∣ble and lowly, by their Spiritual birth or new nature, and by their divine light and conside∣ration, do improve and augment it, as hath been shewed; so this truth may further ap∣pear, (namely, that Regenerate men are such as hath been said) by the Names and Titles the Holy Ghost gives them in Scripture. They are called the Meek of the Earth, Zeph. 2.3. that is, the onely meek men that live in this world, and that from their new nature and heavenly birth, their thoughts of themselves, and their singular carriages and walkings before and towards God and men. This Appellation is often given them in Scripture, to distinguish them from other men, how good natur'd soe∣ver they are; and to declare and shew forth their new natures and singular frames, carria∣ges and dispositions; to manifest how God looks on and accounts them, and to provoke them to carry themselves accordingly before all men, Psal. 22.26. The meek shall eat and be satisfyed: and the meek will he guide in judgment;

the meek will he teach his way, Psal. 25.9. so in Psal. 37.11. Psal. 76.9. Psal. 149.4. Isa. 11.4. A••os 2.7. Math. 5.5. so they are named humble persons, Job. 22.29. Psal. 9.12. Psal. 10.12.17. Psal. 69.32. Pro. 29.23. Isa. 57.15. Jam. 4.6. They are low and vile in their own Eyes; they are nothing, yea, worser than nothing in their own apprehensions, and so are all their works and best performances also. Wherefore you, who think your selves new Creatures, or to be Regenerated and born a∣gain, should examine your selves whether or no you are indeed under this Character, if you have this certain and undeniable Mark of Christs sheep on you? For if you have it not, you are not as yet Regenerated, you are not the real sheep of Christ, but you are still in your old sinful states and conditions, and you shall certainly perish except you be born again. There are very many Persons, who have gotten light in their Heads, many con∣victions and much trouble of Spirit; have reformed their lives, and walk with the Peo∣ple of God: who are so far from being more sweet, humble and meek, in and by their light, Reformation, and supposed change of state, as that they are more high and lofty then they were. In this Sense they are Changed from less to more Pride, from Sin to Sin in a higher degree. They are greater in their own Eyes, and more haughty in their words and deport∣ments than they were before their Reformati∣on; which clearly and infallably shews that they are not as yet partakers of the Divine na∣ture,

or Spirit of Christ: but though they have put on sheeps cloathing, yet they are ravening wolves within. I have known many who took up a seeming true profession and practice of Godliness, with much Pride and high thoughts of themselves, and a low and base esteem of others, (possibly better then themselves) but none of them proved sound, and Regenerate persons, but at long run, they withered away and came to nothing, or worse than nothing. And when I find per∣sons (especially young ones) under convicti∣ons of, and trouble for sin (as they say) en∣quiring after the way to Heaven, and reform∣ing their lives, without evident humble hearts, words, carriages and deportments: I cannot but fear what their ends will be. But know, that if you are Regenerate indeed, your Re∣generation hath greatly, (though not per∣fectly) meekned, humbled and made you lowly minded.

Fourthly, The frame and disposition of the new Creature is set upon, and Resolved to exalt and mag∣nify God, and the Lord Jesus Christ. Men are prone to adore, exalt, and greaten something or person, and because they do not (by Nature) know or find any one Person or thing of bet∣ter account and esteem with them, then their carnal Self, they do make it their business to exalt, serve, and advance that, and take much delight in their so doing; but to exalt, serve and magnify God, they have no mind or de∣light. And therefore all their care and en∣deavours are exercised and lade out about

that, namely, to keep a Good Opinion of them∣selves, secure, and sence themselves against all Convictions of a contrary import, and to com∣mend themselves by some good behaviour un∣to men, that they may think well of them, honour and exalt them: to obtain their good thoughts and words, and get their applause and renown; and in this they glory and please themselves, and that when they know them∣selves not to be the persons within doors that they seem to be without; For they value and e••teem the praise of men, more than the praise of God, Joh. 12.43. But as Regeneration humbles men, and makes them vile in their one eies, so it greatly magnifies and exalts God the Father, and Jesus Christ Mediator. It is not fained in or by them, but it is their very make, their frame, bent, and disposition; It is natural to the new Creature to honour and magnify God, as it was before to the natural man to honour and magnify Self; Now they can be nothing, that Christ may be all, and in all things, Coll. 3.11. they can upon choice, be base and vile, that Christ many be honoured and exalted thereby. They can freely become the Foot∣stool of Christ, that he may be lifted up on high; they can be any thing (but sinners) for the greatning of Christ, and setting him (as it were) on his Throne, Phil. 1.20.

The new Creature being of a heavenly make and Constitution, is wholly taken up with, and Swallowed up in Christ and his Interests. Car∣nal self is become a vile thing to that man who is indeed regenerated, in comparison of Jesus

Christ, his Gospel, Names, and Glory. Self∣denial, and Christ exalting, is one of the first Lessons he Learns, and the first work and concern he is busied about. Assoon as Paul was regenerated, his heart was raised up to this duty, bent, and resolvedly set upon it, and without delay prosecuted it. Lord (says he) what wilt thou have me to do, Acts. 9.6. and he tels us, that assoon as he knew his Lords will, he consulted not with flesh and blood, (that is, with self ease and safety) no, but presently fell to work, namely, to exalt Christ, save Souls, and enlarge his Masters kingdome, Gal. 1.15, 16. Paul did immediately joyn Issues with Christ, and free∣ly and fully closed up with his Terms, pro∣pounded by himself to all that will be his disciples, Mark. 8.34. Luk. 14.26, 27. Luk. 18. and believe it, so it is with you, if you are his Disciples indeed, Joh. 8.31. if you are born again of the Spirit, Joh. 3.5. Christ Jesus the Lord, is pretious in your Eies, and high in your e∣steem; your Lives, Estates, Honours, Liber∣ties, Dignities and Relations are small matters to you, in comparison of Christ, his name, Gos∣pel, and Interests. And therefore your desire, choice, design, aime, scope, and endeavours are all to greaten, magnify, and exalt him. As he is the fairest of ten thousands unto you, so you desire, chuse, and labour that he may be so by you. It is a fixed principle in your hearts, a stated Case in your Judgments and Consciences, and a setled frame and bent of your Souls. There is nothing in the World more pleasing and acceptable to you, and there

is not any thing that more refreshes your mindes, and delights your hearts then this, that you have a Christ to Glorify, and that you may Glorify and Honour him. The new Creature is formed for Christ, to be, and live 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the praise of his Glorious Grace, Eph. 1.6.12. They see and acknowledge (when Regenera∣ted) that they are no more their own, but born again, that they might Glorify God with their ••odies and Spirits, which are the Lords, 1 Cor. 6.19.20. and that they that live, should live wholly to him who hath Created them in Christ Jesus unto good workes, 2 Cor. 5.15. Eph. 2.10. One of the first questions or enquiries of the new Crea∣ture is, how and wherein he may live to God, please and honour him, and bring forth fruit whereby he may be glorifyed, Joh. 15.8. it is the great case and interest their hearts and souls are concerned in, and they are grieved when they cannot reach it, but receive or count it matter of joy when he is really loved, honoured and exalted by any, especially when they can do it themselves. It is so natural to new Creatures, or Regenerate men, and they are so interessed in and with Jesus Christ his concerns, as that they take and account what is done to or against him, is done to or against themselves. They are like the Lord Jesus their head in this too, Namely, that what i•• Christs Indignity, is theirs, and what is Christs glory and honour, is theirs also. His reproach and honour lays nearer their hearts then any or all their own Earthly and Bodily concern∣ments. The Lord Jesus accounts his Peoples

Reproaches, Indignities, Prosperity and Hap∣piness, his own, such is his great love and re∣spects to, and care of them, Isa. 63.9. Acts 9.5. Math. 10.42. Math. 25.40. Zach. 2.8. If they be honoured, he is so; if they be abused, he is abu∣sed; and if they suffer, he doth so to; In all their Afflictions he is afflicted. And as it is with Christ in their concerns, so it is (in measure) with them in Christs concerns. Is his Name, Gospel and Worship, under a cloud of contempt and reproach, it is matter of grief and mourning to them, and when they are loved, exalted, and dignifyed, it is their glory and joy, Phil. 5.17. Psal. 119. And that it is so indeed, may farther be evidenced.

1. From their near Relations. New Creatures or Regenerate men are the Children of God. He hath begotten them by his Grace and Gospel; Jam. 1.18. 1. Pet. 1.3.14. and all ingenious Children will concern themselves in and with their Fathers honour and indignity, and naturally seek to advance and exalt them all they can, or ought to do. How much more doth the Divine nature and Spirit of God in Believers prompt and instigate them to do so to their heavenly Father, and that by all the wayes and means they may.

2. They are the Spouses of the Lord Jesus, and he is their Husband, Cant. 2.16. 2 Cor. 11.2. Jer. 3.14. Christ hath chosen and taken them to himself, Hosea 3.2, 3. to be his loving and affectionate Brides, Joh. 15.16. and they have chosen and taken him to be their Husband, and become one with himself. The Lord

Jesus Regenerates men, to make them capable of chosing him for theirs, and to make them meet for this Conjugal Relation. And they have in their hearts the love and respects (in part) that are due to such a Relation as Christ is.

3. They are related to Christ as members to the head. He is their head, and they are his members, Eph. 5.23.30. And therefore they must needs have his nature and spirit, to desire and natu∣rally design, intend and indeavour to exalt and honour him. The members of the natural body do naturally honour their head, and the head doth the same to the members, 1 Cor. 12.26. So it is in the mystical head and body. And it cannot but be so, because of the one∣ness and mutual simpathy that is between them. So then, if you are new Creatures, you are members of Christ, and if members of Christ, then you simpathize with Christ. His reproach is yours, and his honour is yours, and you have a natural frame, bent, and disposition of heart, to honour, exalt, and magnify him all you can, and it is your delight & joy to do it.

2. Love, esteem and respects, that are in these Relations, and flow from them to Christ, do prompt and stir you up to Desire, Chuse, Design and endeavour to honour and exalt him. Their strong and endeared love to, and high esteem of him, provokes and moves them to study, project, watch and labour all they can to please, honour, and exalt him. The love of so many near and great Relations, as they stand in to him, must needs be very strong and fervent, being in one subject. They love

and esteem him as their loving, sweet, and kind Head, Father, Husband, as their Redeemer, Teacher, Comforter, Crowner, and Eternal Savi∣our, and therefore they cannot but seek, and endeavour his honour and exaltation. They have eyes enlightned, to see a transcendent Worth, and glorious Excellency, Beauty, and Majesty in Christ, and they see him, As worthy of all Acceptation, 1 Tim. 1.15. so of all glory and exaltation. Neither Christ or his Excel∣lencies are hid from them; but the Glory of them do so shine into their hearts, as greatly to draw forth their Hearts, Tongues, and Souls, to magnify and honour him, Psal. 103.1.2. Cant. 5.10.—ult. They lay a Charge on themselves, and command (as it were) their all to bless and glorify him. Now, what can you say to this mark, Can you say it is so with you? do you find it in you? and do you experience it indeed, or do you not? can you say in deed and in Truth, that whatever the performance be, yet the frame, bent, choice, inclination, and disposition of your hearts, and endevours of your hands, are fully and frequently set, and resolved to exalt, serve, please and magnify the great God, and Jesus Christ, your Lord and King, your Glory and Crown?

Fifthly. The new Creature hath a hungring and thursting desire, and earnest longing after Jesus Christ; after Interest in and Communion with him; after a clearer and more distinct know∣ledge of him and acquaintance with him, and whatsoever is his: as his Lawes, Promises,

Blood Graces, or what ever else they hear is in him or hath relation to, or proceeds from him. The new Creature is like Noahs Dove, that can rest the sole of its foot only on, and in this Ark of the Everlasting Covenant; All o∣ther Foundations are but broken Reeds, and Ropes of Sand to him. Christ and the Cove∣nant of Grace, the faithfulness and All-suffi∣ciency of God, are his only Anchor Holds, and Rocky Grounds, upon which he can rest him∣self, and on which he casts and roles himself. The New Man is the only wise Builder, for he chuses the Rock of Ages to Build upon, and none else, Math. 7.25. Math. 16.18. Phil. 3.7, 8. The Foundation which God hath laid in the Covenant of Grace for men to Build themselves, their Faith and Hope upon, that they desire, chuse, hunger, and seek after, and cannot be satisfied without, 1 Cor. 3.11. Psal. 73.25, 26. The Regenerate persons take up in rest, build, and stay themselves; The Lord is my Rock (says David) Psal. 18.2. so says every New Creature, the Lord Jesus Christ shall be my only Rock and Foundation; my hopes, notions, self-righteousness, good works and performances, my self-supposed abilities, Professions, Priviledges, and Reformations, shall no more be my Foundations as they have been; No, but Christ and the Covenant of Grace, the Faithfulness and All-sufficiency of God, shall be my Foundation and resting Place: I will build my self, and all my hopes, confidences, and expectations, wholly and altogether on them; for they, and they only,

can bare the weight of my Soul, and eternal Salvation, which I must build upon them. But unregenerate men have other bottoms and foundations to rest and build themselves upon; they little or nothing at all concern themselves in good earnest, with the Foun∣dation God hath laid, but form a great many to themselves, and build all their confidences, hopes, and expectations on them, and say, they are safe and secure, no evil shall come to them, Math. 7.26. Thus did the foolish Virgins, Math. 25.1.— and thus did Paul before his Regene∣ration, Phil. 3.6, 7. But it was otherwise after his Regeneration, then his whole Soul and mind was carried forth to Christ, with all pos∣sible earnestness and importunity, Phil. 3.8. Their thousand of Rams, and ten thousand Rivers of Oyl, now, are nothing to them, as once they were, Micah. 6.7. no, but now ten thousand of worlds for a sure and certain bottom or foundation to rest and build my poor shaken and tossed Soul upon, is the voice and cry of all Regenerate men, before they clearly find Christ, so as to build upon him, and commit all their present and everlasting concerns on him.

And as they have a hungering and thirst∣ing desire, &c. after Christ for their foun∣dation to build upon; so also to have him in their armes and hearts, to have more and clearer knowledg of, and intimate acquain∣tance and communion with him. His absence is grievous to them, but his presence and favour, his smiles and acquaintance is better to

them then Life, Psal. 30.5. Psal 4.6. They greatly desire to see and know their glorious King arrayed with all his Royal Robes, ap∣proaching and comeing neare unto, and opening himselfe unto them; to impart the secrets of his Love and Grace unto them, and thereby allure and draw them unto himself. Psal. 63.1.2. Cant. 4. ult. Psal. 25.14.

Sixthly, A new Creature hath all holy Spiritual passions and affections. The natu∣ral man (you know) hath many natural passi∣ons and affections, so the new man hath many Spiritual and heavenly passions and affections. The naturall man hath many evil and sinful affections and passions, and the Spiritual man hath many divine and holy affections and passions. I shall name some, and but a few of them.

1. Love. As Regeneration makes men love∣ly, acceptable and desirable to God, Men and Angels, Ezek. 16. so it makes them ex∣ceeding loveing and affectionate men, to God and men. Before regeneration they are Self-lovers, Sin-lovers, and World-lovers, but by the new Nature and Spirit they have re∣ceived from Heaven, they are no more such, but God-lovers, Christ-lovers, Grace-lovers, Duty-lovers, and Saint-lovers. Now they have new affections for new objects and mat∣ters. They have operating Affections to and for God. They single out God, Christ, and Holyness: they chuse and single out from o∣ther objects and things, the Grace and Spirit, the Laws, Promises, People, and Ordinances

of Christ, for their Love, and to set their strongest, warmest, and heavenly Affections upon. The affections or passion of love in them, is stirred, Moved, Warmed, and En∣flamed by the Love of God, the Grace and Loveliness of Christ, that is declared and re∣presented to them in and by the Gospel. Oh how doth this passion somtimes work and act in them towards these objects and things. It is so full as that they are not able to vent or express it, especially when Christ appears to them, and puts in his hand (as it were) by the hole of the door (the heart) as that they can but sigh and sob, cry and weep out a lit∣tle of this strong and working affection. This did Mary Magdalen, Luk. 7.38. she stood at his Feet weeping, and washed the feet of Christ with her Tears: but what was the ground of her so doing? see Verse 47. why it was her ardent love and affection to Christ: she did so, for she loved much, namely Christ. Oh! what a strong passion of love was she in. How did her Affection work towards Christ? so likewise did Peters too, Joh. 12. Lord (saith he) thou knowest that I love thee; but how much or how strong his love and affection to Christ was, he could not express: David also gives us ano∣ther Testimony of it, Psal. 119.97. Oh! how I Love thy Law: and elsewhere (sayes he) I love them exceedingly. I do love them with a great∣er and more affectionate love than I can ex∣press; and so was his love moved and drawn out to good men, Psal. 16.3.

2. Hatred. These are opposite and contrary passions in men, namely, Love and Hatred. In our unregenerate States we do Love what we should hate, and hate what we should Love. We Love Gods enemies, and hate his friends; we hate his Laws, Rods, Yoke, Waies, & People, and love our Lusts, the World, Self, and the Service of sin. But Regeneration sets holy and God Pleasing Love and hatred in us. So that now, by the power of his Regenerating Grace; we love that which we should love, and hate that we should hate; that which was our duty to have done before, now we can do. Now we can and do love holiness, and hate, loath, and abhor our lusts and sins. Now we hate the workes of the flesh, and love the workes of the Spirit. And as the passion of love is strong and intense on its Objects, so is this of hatred likewise. The man in whom this new holy hatred is, did never more really, heartily, and fervently love his lusts, and the fulfilling of them, than he doth now hate, abominate, and endeavour to destroy them, 1. Cor. 9. ult. Gal. 5.24. They that are Christs (namely, by Regeneration) have Crucified the flesh with the Affections and Lusts. David tells us, that this Affection or Passion was strong in him, as well as that of love, Psal. 119.104.113. I hate every false way; and I hate vain thoughts, but thy Law do I love. Blessed Paul Speaks likewise to the same purpose of himself, Rom. 7.15. But what I hate, that do I. I do sin, its true; But I can say, that my sin is the great and only Object of my hatred, that's as true also. God hates all

Iniquity in all men, Psal. 45.8. Ja. 44.4. and he puts the same Affection or passion into his people in Regeneration, that they may hate it also. All sin is exceeding sinful, loathsome, and abominable to the new creature for its own sake, in its own nature, and as it is hateful to God. The evil and pernitious effects and Consequences of it makes or renders it the ob∣ject of their constant hatred also. They that are Spiritual minded, and are in the pursuit af∣ter Grace, Christ, and Holyness, to perfect it is the fear of God, as Commanded, 2. Cor. 7.1. do hate their sin, because it hath deprived them of, and spotted the Image of God, in which they were created, Gen. 1.26. (2) Because it hath robbed God of his due Worship and Service for which he Created them. (3) Because it hath occasioned the great debasement and Suffering of the Lord Jesus. For had not men Sinned, Christ had not Suf∣fered. (4) Because it grieves and vexes the holy Spirit of God, Isa. 63. Eph: 4.30. (5) Because sin devides and separates between God and them, Isa. 59.1.2. (6) Because it doth defile and pollute all their holy things, and would quite marr and spoyl them, did not their great High Priest appear for them to puri∣fie their Offerings, Exod. 28.38. (7) Because Sin doth clog and burden them, so as that they cannot Run their Race, nor do that good they desire, and are resolved to do in this world, Heb. 12.1. Rom. 7. (8) Because their sinful hearts draw them off from God, and indispo∣ses them to, and for their walking with God.

(9) Because it betrays them into the hand of their great Adversary the Devil, and strength∣ens him against them. (10) Because by sin God is dishonoured, and his holy Name blas∣phemed, his Truths despised, and his blessed ways rejected. These and such like conside∣rations of sin, greatly provokes and stirs up the holy hatred of sin in all Regenerate men, as they can experience. There is in them a universal, perpetual, and irreconcilable hatred of all sin, especially such of their own sins as do more easily beset them, Heb. 12.1. They hate the very name and appearance of sin; all the Germents spotted with the flesh, Jude 23. They dare not knowingly parly, or hold correspon∣dency with sin, because the thought or consi∣deration of it is most hateful and abomina∣ble.

3. Fear. New Creatures are the only real fearers of God. The all-seeing Eye, the Holi∣ness, Righteousness, Goodness, and Authority of God, do awe them, and cause them to fear and tremble before him, Hosea 3.5. Isa. 66.1.2. Jer. 32.39, 40. They do now approach nigh to God, and worship him with a holy and God∣ly fear, and are enabled to walk in the fear of the Lord all the day long, Psal. 2.11. Heb. 12.28. Prov. 23.17. They are afraid of sin, and temp∣tations to it, and dare not knowingly and de∣liberately come nean them, but avoid and eschew the appearances and occasions of evil. They are more afraid of the cause, then the effects; the sin, then the punishment. The thoughts of their danger they are always in,

and their aptness and proneness to transgress, by reason of the deceitfulness and treachery of their hearts, the strength and power of Lusts, snares of the World, and Satans fi•• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Darts, do make them jealous, fearful, circum∣spect, and watchful. They see such a Majesty, Excellency, and glorious Presence in the holy God, and Jesus Christ, in his Names, Offices, Obedience, Blood, Love, and Grace: in his Laws, Promises, Ways, and Ordinances, which causes them to fear and reverence them er∣ceedingly, Psal. 89.7.

4. Hope. Hope is another holy Passion or Affection in the New Creature. Their hope is set on God the Father, and Christ his Son, Psal. 78.7. Tit. 2.13. and on all the good things held out to them in the Promises, called the blessed Hope, Tit. 2.13. They have Christ in them, the hope of Glory, Col. 1.27. and they have Christ without them, with all his fulness, in the Covenant and Promises, and in Heaven for them, as their hope. Every man hath the na∣tural passion of hope, but gracious men have the spiritual hope. They hope for all the good of the covenant of grace, fullness of Christs Grace, and whatever may make them holy hear and happy hereafter. The natural hope of unregenerate men is a groundless hope, and the great things it is exercised about, are but vain, perishing, worldly things, and groundless hopes for a happiness heareafter. Job. 8.13.14 hence they are said to be with•••••• hope in the world, because they want the real, spiritual, and well grounded hope, Eph. 2.12

1 Thes. 4.13. But Regenerate men have a holy, spiritual, and well grounded hope; and they by out and cast the Anchor of their hope on ••••••ings that are sure, and unmovable; on spi∣ritual, heavenly, Soul-saving and eternal mat∣••••s, and their hope is impressed, provoked, ••••eng thened and quickned by them, to hope more strongly, steadily and constantly for the enjoyment of them. They hope to obtain eternal Life in the Lords own way; Tit. 1.2. not in the wayes of their own evil hearts, as other men do. They hope for the coming of Christ, the exaltation and setting up of his Kingdome, themselves to be like him, and to see 〈◊〉〈◊〉 as be is, 1 Joh. 3.2.3. Tit. 2.13. They hope for more light, life, and holiness from Christ, and for greater measures of his Spirit to be poured out upon them in this world; and they hope for more and more joy and peace in Believing, Rom. 15.13. That they may great∣ly rejoyce in hope of the Glory of God, 1 Rom. 5.2. and for that glorious resurrection that is promised. To this hope they are called in their Regeneration, Eph. 1.18.44. and this is one of the fruits of the spirit in their hearts, e∣ver after.

5. Joy. Joy is another holy passion in good men. There is the natural passion of joy in all men, and there is the Spiritual passion of joy in Regenerate men. There is the object or matter of joy, and there is the joy it self, and also the faculty or subject of joy. The ob∣ject or matters of joy and rejoycing to good men are Christ, Grace, and heavenly things,

Phill. 3.1.3. Phil. 44. Psal. 4.4. Psal. 32. ult. (2) the joy its self which flows forth from these objects or matters of joy into their hearts. For experience shews, that sometimes the objects of joy are shut up and yield no joy at all to us when we do eye and mind them, and would fain draw it out of them, but they are like Clouds that give down no rain at all sometimes, or as a Fountaine shut up 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sealed, Cant. 4.12. But at other times they are opened to us, and then the joy of the Lord refreshes and chears, strengthens and warmes our Souls. This is given us of God the Father, Christ and the holy Spirit, as a special expressi∣on of his Love and Grace to us. The objects of joy will not afford it until he give it, or command them to hand it out to us, Psal. 133.3. Rom. 14.17. Rom. 15.13. Gall. 5.22. Joh. 14. Job. 15.11. Joh. 6.20. (3) There is the faculty or subject of joy, that is, that which is onely capable of receiving the impressions of the joy of the Lord in the Soul, and improving it aright. This is that we call the affection or passion of joy, and this is given to men namely, as it is a Spiritual or new passion in Regeneration. For thereby God makes them subjects capable of receiving and rightly em∣bracing, valuing, and useing the heavenly joy he intends for, and hath promised to give unto them, in their walking with him in their Regenerate states. Now they can and do rejoice in Christ Jesus, Phill. 3.3. in his love and Grace, and in his will and their duty, Rom. 7.22. Psal. 40. now they praise God with

joyful lips, Psal. 63.5. and shout for joy of heart, Psal. 32. ult. Now they rejoyce and work righte∣ousness, and walk on in their way rejoycing, Acts 8.39. Isa. 64.5. Their hearts are full of great and unspeakable joy, at some seasons, so as that their Vessels can now hold no more, 1 Pet. 1.8. With this Holy Joy in their hearts, they can run, and not be weary, walk, and not faint, Isa. 40. ult. Neh. 8.10.

6. Sorrow. This is in a sense a contrary pas∣sion or affection to that of Joy. There is a natural and carnal sorrow, and a holy and spiritual sorrow, or grief of heart; the first is common to all men, the second is only found in Regenerate men. Sorrow in a natu∣ral sense is an evil, but in a spiritual sense it is a good passion. Joy and sorrow are strong and vehement working passions in men, when strongly imprest, and deeply affected with re∣al or supposed evil or good. There is a worldly, and there is a godly sorrow, 2 Cor. 7.10. Regeneration brings into, and sets up the godly sorrow in men, and thereby they are enabled to sorrow after a godly manner, 2 Cor. 7.9. This passion is moved and imprest, and the acts of godly sorrow are produced by seve∣ral, and these different objects and matters. First their own lusts, sins, and God-provoking abominations, their vileness and filthiness, and their former contempts of Christ, and despising, slighting, and rejecting his Love, Grace, Yoke, Promises and Kindnesses. These, and many other evils, and the serious thoughts and considerations of them, do break and

wound their hearts, and cause much inward grief, anguish, and sorrow of heart, and make them cry out, unclean, unclean, what shall we do, or how shall we appear before the holy and righteous God, Acts 2.35, 36, 37, Acts 16. This causes them to sigh and mourn, and er∣ercise revengeful thoughts against them∣selves, and to take indignation of them∣selves, condemn, abhor, and loath themselves, Ezek. 36.31. 2 Cor. 7.11. And secondly, the serious thoughts and considerations of the God, Christ, Grace, Love and Kindness they have sinned against: They see, know, and lay to heart who they have grieved, wounded, and dishonoured, namely, their God who had thoughts of love and peace for them, when they were in their blood, Ezek. 16. Jer. 29. They hope they had an interest in his heart, and that he loved them before they loved God; yea, when they hated him, and would have none of his counsel, 1 Joh. 4.19. Pro. 1. They likewise see and consider the great Love and Grace of Christ, and what great things he hath done and suffered for them, to sa•••• them from the wrath that is to come, 1 Thes. 1. ult. The thoughts of the exceeding great pati∣ence and long-suffering of God towards them, his pittying them, and waiting on and for them, that he might be gracious to them, Isa. 30.18. Rom. 2.4, 5. Rom. 10. ult. his standing at the door and knocking for them, to have admis∣sion into their hearts, Rev. 3.20. and how willing and importunate he was to be at peace and in friendship with them; how base∣ly

and unworthily they carried themselves towards him, and how they turned a deaf ear to his Calls and Invitations, and made him wait so long for their acceptance of him, e∣ven until his Locks were wet with the dew of the right, Cant. 5. This works grief, and raises great sorrow in their hearts. So when they consider how their sins have stabb'd and mur∣dred the Lord Jesus, and put him to open shame, Heb. 6 6. how they pulled down the wrath and Curse of God on him, Gal. 3.12. and how he poured out sighs, tears, yea, his precious Blood and Soul for them, Isa. 53. and like∣wise how their sins were imputed to, and laid on him, and how he was Crucified and killed for them, and all to save them, and instate them in his own Glory and Eternal Blessed∣ness, 2 Cor. 5. ult. Joh. 10. Joh. 17. and how ungratefully they have demeaned themselves to him. Oh! how doth this work on them? how do these things irritate, and cause sor∣row and bitterness of Soul in them? Now they can indeed look on him whom they have pierced, and mourn, and be in real bitter∣ness of Soul, as for their First-born, Zach. 12.10. These, and many other things, (which I can∣not now mention) do greatly melt them, and provoke holy Sorrow, and Repentance unto Life; for as Christ his Love, Grace, and Suf∣ferings, do work on their passion of Joy, irri∣tates and provokes it, so they do work on, and cause much sorrow and grief of heart (through the helps of the Spirit) likewise. The same objects and matters do work sa∣vingly

and effectually on both, namely, to cause joy and sorrow in the same New Crea∣ture. These are some of the holy, spiritual affections and passions, which are formed in the Soul in Regeneration; and if you are in∣deed Regenerate persons, you can (in some degree) experience them in your hearts; therefore try and examine your selves by them, if you are in a Regenerate state and condition.

Seventhly, The New Creature is full of spiri∣tual and heavenly desires after Divine Matters and Concernments, Isa. 26.8. Psal. 10.17. 2 Chron. 15.15. Pro. 11.23. Unregenerate men are full of carnal worldly desires, Eph. 2.3. of which they make their boast, Psal. 10.3. But the New Creatures heart is full of spiritual desires; their desires are ascending, not de∣scending; they came from Heaven, and like Fire, they do naturally bend and ascend thi∣ther from whence they came; they greatly desire to be holy and conformable in heart and life to the Will of God; they greatly desire to know and see Jesus Christ, and to have intimate and constant Communion with him, Psal. 63.1, 2. Exod. 33. They that are Regenerated, desire the death and destructi∣on of all their Lusts, and the thorough clean∣sing of their hearts of all sin, Psal. 51. Rom. 7. They desire to love God as he is to be loved, to fear him as he is to be feared, to trust him as he is to be trusted, to serve and please him as he ought to be served and pleased, and to honour and glorifie him as he ought to be honoured and glorified. They desire that

Christ may rule in their hearts, and that he will pull down all his Enemies there, that so he may Reign alone, so as that they may not serve sin, or carnal Self any more; they de∣fire to have their hearts always in Heaven, and to be spiritually-minded continually; they desire the coming of Christ, and that his Kingdom may be established above the tops of the Mountains, and be exalted above the Hills, Isa. 2.2, 3. Rev. 22. ult. They desire that his Name may be great among the Gentiles, and find ac∣ceptance among the Jews. They desire that the Gospel may run and be glorified, and find acceptance among all sorts of men; and they desire to see a great Spirit of Humility, Zeal, and Gospel-Holiness, upon Professors of the good ways of Jesus Christ. In a word, they desire whatever God tells them he desires of, or for them. Doth God desire them to be ho∣ly in all manner of Conversation, and to be fruit∣ful in every good work; why, they desire the same too? Doth God will and desire that they should love the Brethren, 1 Pet. 1.22. be good and charitable to the poor, simpathize with, and help them in their afflictions, Mat. 25. why, they desire the same also? Would God have them single and sincere hearted to himself, and all men, and do to all men as they would have them do to themselves, why, they do will and desire the same likewise? Would God have them seek his glory in all their ways, watch and guard their hearts; render good for evil, be in his fear all the day long, Pro. 23.17. not de∣part from God, but give him their hearts, walk with him, and perfect holiness in his fear, 2 Cor. 7.1.

why, the same they greatly will and desire also. So that as Daniel was said to be a man of desires, Dan. 9.23. (margin) so all Regenerate persons, are men of desires. They are fuller of heavenly desires after divine things, than of all other good things. They desire to have what they cannot get, as yet, and to do that which they cannot do. But they are (as it were) made up of desires after the doing and obtainment of them. Regenerate mens desires are good and great desires; they shew what a man is, and by them they may know their States, whether they be Regenerate or unregenerate persons. If the desires of a man be wholly or mostly after the things of the flesh, there is a carnal man: if after holyness, Christ and hea∣venly things, there is a Spiritual man indeed; For as the flood of thy desires are, so art thou, Performanes are short, but desires are long, ob∣tainments are few, but desires are many in all reall Regenerate persons. To will and desire they find, when they find not how to perform and act their desires.

Eightly, New Creatures, or Regenerate Persons, are born to, and imployed in great, special, and pe∣culiar works and services; namely, such as other men, and they themselves were strangers to before. They loathed the very names of them, and would by no means be perswaded to mind or consider them before. But now they are their works, their chosen, desired, loved, and highly esteemed works and services. They are their acceptable and most delightful works now, because they are the works of God, and

for God their Father; and also because their hearts and Souls are by the Grace of Regene∣ration suited to them. The Laws of them are written in their hearts, and in all the faculties of their Souls, Jer. 3.33. Heb. 8.10. Heb. 10.16. so that they are natural, to and in them. Now all natural works or actions, are plea∣sant and delightful to men; and so are New Creatures acts, works, and services, to them. I delight to do thy will, O God, (says David) how so? why, the Law of God was written in his heart, Psal. 40.8. Heb. 10. so Paul, Rom. 7.22. They are born to and for them, and they are created with and in them, Ephes. 2.10. For we are his work-manship, Created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath ordained, that we should walk in them; so Rom. 7.4.6. First, they were Elected, Chosen, and Ordained to and for them, Eph. 2.10. Eph. 1.4. 1 Pet. 2.9.2. we are Redeemed to and for them, Tit. 2.14. 1 Pet. 2.9. 2 Cor. 14.15. (3) we are called and Re∣generated to and for them. 1 Pet. 1.15. 1 Pet. 2.9. Eph: 2.10. They are by Election, Re∣demption, and Regeneration, made a Special and peculiar People unto God, and for holy and special works: in which works and Ser∣vices they are ever exercised after their Re∣generation. God ever imploys them, and they walk and excercise themselves in them, as their great Trade and businesse, Phil: 3.20. These Special and peculiar works and Services of Regenerate men, are many. I shall name but a few of them to you at this time.

They are Born again, as with the Love of God

in their hearts, so to Love God withall their heart, all their daies, Deut. 30.6. Rom. 5.5. This is their care, worke and excercise; and that not only to love God simply, but to love him Sincerly, Heartily, Strongly, Purely. Fervently, and Constantly and Obediently. To love God as God, and as their God, as their great and everlasting, and as their Gracious, Kind, and Loving God; to love him in the Superlative de∣gree, as their chiefest and only good. This work they love and delight in; they contrive and project it, study and endeavour to do it as they ought, and this they resolve on, and use all means to obtain it. They charg their hearts with it, and lay bonds on themselves to do it, Psal: 18.1. Psal. 116.1. Cant. 1.4. They use Gods means to help and enable them to do it. They read, hear, and Contemplate; they meditate on, consider and apply to themselves the great love of God to them, and his exceed∣ing great Lovelinesse, to stir up and inflame their love to him againe. They pray impor∣tunately and frequently to him, to shed abroad more of his love into their hearts, and to re∣veal himself in his Love and Grace unto their Souls, that they may thereby be quickened, moved, and enabled to love him more Cordial∣ly and ardently. They are so set upon it, and so greedy after it, and they do so desire and co∣vet it, as that they are never satisfied with the degree and excercise of their love to God: But are unregenerate men imployed so in this work; no not in the least, For they have not the love of God in their hearts, Joh. 5.42. Their

hearts are not circumcised to love God, be∣cause they are not Regenerated, neither do they love or desire to have it so; for when God proffers them his Spirit to do it, they refuse and reject him, and will not have him to concern himself with them in that matter, Pro. 1.23.24. Isa. 63. Gen. 6. Well then, try your selves by this; what can you say to it? Is this special work of Regenerate men your work, or is it not? Be you sure of it, that if you be Regenerated, or born again, it is your work and business? But if it be not, you are yet in your old and unregenerate states.

2. They are exercised and imployed about the good work, of searching out their own ini∣quities, and to find out the Plagues, Errours, and deceits of their own hearts and ways, that they may repent of their sins, and mend what they find amiss. To reform what ought to be reformed, and to remove whatever is hurtful to their Souls, or displeasing to God; that they may see more cause of Self-abasement, and be excited and provoked to walk more circumspectly and hum∣bly with their God, Micah 6.8. Eph. 5.15. This is not the work that Regenerate men are ex∣ercised about; no, but on the contrary, they labour to hide their sins, Pro. 28.13. Joh. 3.20. and to live in continual ignorance of their hearts, states, and ways, that so they may live in peace and quietness at home, and not be troubled at the sight of them. They love and delight in their iniquities, and they work and practise what they love, Psal. 62.4. Isa. 66.3. They let their own sins alone, they neither

desire nor endeavour to know them, but they are (especially some of them) great enquirers after, and searchers into others transgressions; which clearly demonstrates, that whatever they do profess to be, yet they are hypocrites, Psal. 64.6. Mark 32. Luke 6.7. Luke 20.20. Greater and more certain sign of a Hypocrite can∣not be found than this, namely, for a man that professes godliness, to be willingly igno∣rant of his own state and sins, and to be a Pryer and Searcher into other mens, without a clear Call from God so to do. This the Hy∣pocrites deal with Christ and Paul, that they might find occasion to Charge, Censure, and Judge them, as the aforesaid Scriptures shew, and in 2 Cor. 11.12. But it is otherwise with Regenerate men; they hate and abhor that filthy odious wickedness of others, and make it one part of their business to know them∣selves, and the evils of their own hearts and ways, Job 13.23. Psal. 77.6. 1 Sam. 21.1. They cry and pray, they call and wait on God to shew them all their lusts and sins, such is the desire and fervency of their hearts in this matter, Job 34.32. This is their work, and this they do conscientiously, seriously, fervently, heartily, and frequently; and that as their duty, work, and business, in all states, tryals, and conditions whatsoever: For they are jealous and suspitious, not of others, but of their own deceitful hearts. Thus they do; and when they have made any new discovery of their sins, they bless God for their suc∣cess; and then they fall to another work.

3. To subdue and mortifie such unmortified Lusts as they find in their hearts, to purifie themselves, and rectifie such errours and mistakes, as upon search do appear and come to light. This they are in∣joyned to do as their duty, and this they do exercise and imploy themselves in, in obe∣dience to the Will of God, because it is his Holy Will, Col. 3.5. Mortifie therefore your mem∣bers, 2 Cor. 7.1. Let us cleanse our selves of all filthiness of flesh and spirit. And the Gospel assures us, that this is the work and business of the Children of God. In 1 Joh. 3.1-3. Be∣hold (saith the Apostle) what manner of love is this, that we should be called the Children of God. This is a great and high priviledge indeed. Well, but what are they imployed about, and exercised in? Is it in making provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof, as unregene∣rate men do? Rom. 13. ult. no, but the clean contrary; namely, to purifie themselves, 1 John 3.3. Every man that hath this hope in him, purifies himself, even as he is pure. The like we have mentioned, Gal. 5.24. And they that are Christs, have crucified the flesh, with the affections and lusts. That is, they have not fully done and effected it, but they are seriously, dili∣gently, and sincerely imploying and exerci∣sing themselves in and about that work and great concern of theirs.

This is another of their peculiar and speci∣al works, and this they do and prosecute with servent prayer to God, Psal. 51.7. O purge and wash me, that I may be clean: And O wretched man that I am (says Paul) who shall deliver me from

the body of this death? Rom. 7.24. And as they pray for it frequently and fervently, so they do meditate on, and apply the Blood and Death of Christ to themselves, for the effect∣ing of it, and that as Gods Ordinance and ap∣pointment for that end, Tit. 2.14. Who gave himself to redeem us from all iniquity, and to puri∣fie unto himself a peculiar people. They apply themselves unto, and use all Gods means for the accomplishment of it; as Fasting, the Lords Supper, and hearing the Gospel preached, which God hath appointed to mortifie their lusts, and to purifie and clean their hearts, Eph. 5.25, 26. John 15.3. John 17.17. Every word of God is pure; and the sincere preaching and hearing of it, is a powerful means to kill our lusts, and purifie our hearts, when heard and recei∣ved in Faith for that end, as Gods Ordinance, Acts 15.9. Heb. 4.2. This they know, and therefore they use them, or for that end and purpose, as well as for light and comfort.

But what is the work and business of un∣regenerate men, or what do they in this mat∣ter? Truly nothing at all; They do neither understand, or like it; but are perfect stran∣gers and enemies to it; there is no principle in them to do it withal, neither do they de∣sire there should be; their minds and thoughts are wholly taken up about making provision for their Pride, Covetousness, Carnal Secu∣rity, Vain Glory, Good Opinion of them∣selves, and other filthy Lusts: and they make themselves their Drudges, and humble servants, Rom. 13. ult. And hence they are said to serve

sin, Rom. 6.6.17.20. But new Creatures know and account their Lusts their greatest Enemies, and prosecute them with implacu∣ble enmity and hatred. They know either they must destroy their Lusts, or they will destroy them. They know that they have trucifyed the Son of God, and put him to o∣pen shame; and they know that they have greatly wronged their own Souls, Pro. 8. ult. And therefore they will give them no Quarter, but stab them to the heart, whatever it cost them to do it.

4. Watching. They are called to, and im∣ployed in the work of watching and guarding themselves, against all their enemies. This is another of their Special and peculiar works and businesses. It is spetial and pe∣culiar to new or regenerate men, (though it is the duty of all men) yet none but they are conscientiously, and dutifully imploy∣ing and exercising themselves in it. But good men are, 1 Joh. 5.18. But he that is begotten of God, keepeth himself. That is, they do watch, a••me, and guard themselves, so David did, Psal. 102.7. Psal. 130.6. and the Scrip∣ture makes it one of the Special properties of good servants, as well as their workes; Habak. 2.1. which Christ pronounces Blessed, Revel. 16.15. 2 Cor. 11.27. Luk. 12.37. Regenerate men are beset with enemies, which watch their opportunities to assault and betray them, and that they know. They know that Satan watches them, and Lusts watch, and the world watches to hurt and mischief their

Souls, and therefore they watch them, and prepare against them. It is true, that good men are apt to be too negligent in this duty, and need stirings up to it, and it is as true, that they do ordinarily practice this duty and worke. They are moved to it (1) by the will and command of God. God requires them to watch & guard themselves, Mark 13.33, 34, 37. (1) Their own hearts, Pro. 4.23. Keep thy heart with all diligence. (2) the Devil, 1 Pet. 5.8. Be Sober, be Vigilant, for your adversary the Devil as a Roaring Lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour. (3) The World, Luk. 21.34.36. (4) To watch unto prayer and all other duties, Col. 4. and Acts 20.31. (1) The Calls to, and opportunities for them, that through heed∣lesness and inadvertency we let them not slip away from us, without imbracing and im∣proving them to the Glory of God and our Souls profit, or advantage of others. (2) That we may close in, and joyn Issues with God and his designes in giving them to us, and that in the time and season of them, and that freely and readily. (2) They are moved to a fervent attendance on this work and duty, by and from their dangers. They are in conti∣nual danger of assaults and surprizalls from them, and therefore they must be always upon their watch; to prevent their designs, discover their plots, and foyl them in their Attempts. (3) From their own security and comfort, they are moved to this worke. It is easier keeping an Enemy out of the Garison of the

heart, then dealing with, and driving him out ••hen admitted in. Their own (as well as Christs) honour, safety and happiness, is much concerned in their so doing. God hath (1) committed themselves to their own keeping, and given them the care and charge of themselves, 1 Joh. 5.21. Pro. 4.23. Jam. 1. ult. 'Tis true ••••at God doth watch over and keep them in especially manner also, Isa. 27.3. 1 Pet. ••5. and that when they are most careful to ••eep themselves (2) God hath intrusted them with power, light, will, and abilities to keep themselves; and in their doing of it, in obe∣dience to his will, he hath promised to keep and secure them from Sin and danger like∣wise, 1 Pet. 5.7.2. Tim. 4.18. They watch and keep themselves dutifully, in order to their safety; and God keeps and watches them powerfully and effectually, so as that the s••es of Hell, shall not prevaile against them, Math. 16.18. But they cannot so keep and secure themselves, with their utmost diligence. This I say is the work and imployment of re∣generate persons; they, and they only, live in the practice of it. Unregenerate persons do no way concern themselves in this great and special work. They know it not, they love it not, neither have they hearts to do it withal. They think it a work of supererogation, and that such as are busied about it, are more strict and precise than they should be. They fear neither God, Sin, World, nor Devil, neither are they sensible of the danger they are in of destruction; but go on securely in the wayes

of their own hearts, and speak peace unto themselves, presuming that no evil shall come to them.

5 They are employing and exercising themselves in worshiping God according to his own will and Appointment: namely, to worship God in Spirit and Truth, and that with his own worship. We are they (sayes Paul of himself and other Saints) who worship God in Spirit, Psal. 3.3. They are convinced that they must, and that God will so be worshiped of them, Joh. 4.24. God is a Spirit, and they that worship him, must worship him in Spirit and Truth. For this self-same thing (though not onely) doth God Regenerate men, and thereby lays in, and sets up a principle of divine worship in them, that so they may rea∣dily do it according to the will of God. For (sayes Christ) the Father seeketh such to worship him, Joh. 4.23. that is, that the Father doth by Christs Gospel and the holy Ghost, call and regenerate, teach and Spirit some to worship him. It is their desire, choice, care, and study to draw nigh to God in all parts of his worship with true hearts; Heb. 10.22. and to worship God sincerely and Spiritually. To please and honour him; to sanctify his name and holy worship, and to give unto the Lord the hon•••••• due unto his name, to comply with his holy will and ends, to make his praise glorious, Psal. 29.1. 2. Psal. 66.2. This is also one of their high and noble works, holy and Spiritual imploy∣ments, and that wherein their Souls delight, to this they are called; for this they are (in part) fitted and qualified in their Regenerati∣on,

and this is their work and business ever ••••er. Thus it is with you, and so is your ••ractice, if you are Regenerated. Unregene∣••••te men are strangers and adversaries to this peculiar work and duty of new Creatures; they know it not, they do it not, neither con∣••••rn themselves with it. They take up in, and are satisfied with the Letter without the Spirit, with the form without the Truth, and ••••er of Godliness, and they imagine that they have done God good service, when they have spent some time in external duties and ordi∣••ances, without the great and onely necessa∣ry things, that God requires in them. But good men cry, watch and pray, and do all they can to worship God in Spirit and Truth, from their new Natures Root and spring within, and the holy Ghost his assistance; and without this they cannot be satisfied. This is the mark they have in their Eye, in all their addresses to God.

6 Trusting in, and liveing on Christ. This is a special and peculiar work and duty, which none can do but new Creatures. But it is their work and business, 2 Cor. 5.7. Heb. 10 38. R••••. 1.17. It is a duty that lies with power in their hearts, and 'tis of great account in their Souls. They are commanded to live by faith, and make God their onely Trust, and in o∣bedience thereunto they do it, Isa. 26.4. Psal. 37.3.5. 1 Pet. 5.7. Psal. 62.8. They are called to live the life of faith and pure de∣pendance on God for all things, and they are furnished with abilities so to do. The faith

of Christ is written in their hearts, and they have a kind of a natural Genious and disposition to it. Thus we find Abraham, David, Paul, and other Saints of God had and did. It is a Li•••• far above and beyond the reach of nature and natural Reason, and God works some to and for it by his Grace in Regeneration, and pre∣sents unto them suitable grounds and objects, for their faith to rest and live upon; as his bonds or promises; his covenant and oath, his truth and faithfulness, and his all sufficiency and immutability. God presents to them his S••••s blood, Death and Resurrection, his natures and offices, his intercession and potency with God, to prevaile for them in Heaven, and procure mercies for them, and the fulness of Christ, as furnished and filled with all Grace for them. And upon these grounds and objects they re•••• and bear themselves. There they fly for Refuge, Pro. 18.10. and there, and on them they live, and wait for all supplies of Grace, Phill. 4.19. And that when the Figtree doth 〈◊〉〈◊〉 blossome, nor any herds are in the stall, Habuck. 3.17, 18, 19. For what ever God hath promised to his people, they claim a share in, and can trust him to give it to them in his own time and way. To instance in some particulars. (1) God hath promised to pardon them, Isa. 55.••. they can and do believe him, and rest upon his for it. (2) Hath God promised to give Repe••∣tance, they can believe and trust him. (3) To heal their Back-slidings, and love them freely, Hose•• 14.4. They can believe and trust him. (4) To pour out more of the spirit, and abundance

〈◊〉〈◊〉 grace, Acts. 2. Joh. 10. they can trust him. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Hath God promised to give grace and ••••y, and to supply all their wants, Psal. 84.11. ••••on. 4.8. and never to leave them nor forsake 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Heb. 13.5. they can and do believe and ••••st him. (6) Hath God promised to subdue 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Lusts and sanctify their hearts, Ezek. 36.25. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Micah. 7.18.19. they can and do believe a••d trust him. (7) Hath God promised to hear ••eir prayers, Psal. 50.15. Help their infirmitites, 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 8.26. Accept their offerings, Isa. 56.7. ••eward their Services, 2 Cron. 15.7. and to ••••ep them by his power through faith unto salvati∣••••; 1 Pet 1.5. they can and do believe and trust him upon his word. They do commit ••eir all to, and leave their all with him, and are ••••isfied in their so doing. They believe all is ••afe and sure that is entrusted in his hand, and glad they are that they have themselves and their all in his custody. It is true they have ••heir fits of unbelief, and do too often distrust God, and in measure let go their Anchor hold; but they recover themselves, and what they ••ave lost again, when the Tempest is over, and they are in a Calm. It is one of their great works and employments, notwithstanding to trust God, and live the life of faith, and that upon choice, and with their whole desire; and in the general course of their Lives, they are enabled by Grace to reach and live it, whate∣••er oppositions are in their way. Therefore it is, that they are called Believers and Trusters of God, by the holy Ghost in Scripture, name∣ly, because it is their proper Life to which

they are called in Regeneration, and that which they do choose and endeavour to Live: But unregenerate persons do not live this Life at all. They have no acquaintance with it, neither know they what it means, experi∣mentally, but onely upon hear-say, they are not regenerated, and therefore are still in a state of unbelief and impenitency. They have no living faith at all, neither do they heartily desire it. They are called unbelievers, 2 Cor. 6.14, 15. Revel. 21.8. because they have no special faith to trust God withal, and do not live the Life of faith.

7 They are called to, regenerated for, and exer∣cised about all sorts of holy duties and heavenly things. They live in Heaven and Trade in Heaven, Revel. 13, 6. Phil. 3, 20. In a word, their business is to acquaint themselves with their Fathers and Husbands Laws, and their d••∣ties, and to love and obey them, with their promises, and the good of them, that they may believe them, and hope upon them, and to suck out the hony and sweetness of them, for their consolation and peace; and to encou∣rage them in their duty and walking with God; and they acquaint themselves with their God and Saviour, and the great things, of another world. These are their good things, and they allure and draw their minds and affections to them. In them, and the contem∣plation of them, do they delight. They feel, taste, and see the Goodness of them, and are greatly enamored with them. They have their hearts, and that causes them so much to con∣verse

with them, and Trade in them and with them. They know it is their duty to live and converse with them, because God hath so commanded, Coll. 3.1.2.3. and they do it in obedience thereunto. But that is not all the Reason of their so doing, no, but they do it because these things and matters are their Spiritual and everlasting Treasures. In them lies all their durable riches, honour, comfort, and happiness. They are sweet to their tast, and pleasant to the eye, and they are the onely Good and Portion of their souls, Math. 6.21. Coll. 2.3. They have nothing else to trust to, nor any thing besides that can satisfy the wants and craving desires of their Souls. For these ends and purposes are they born again, and set here in this world, and for these ends and purposes are they kept and maintained, their hearts have chosen all; they love all, and their desires and endeavours to go out after, to reach them all. About them, their minds, judgments, understandings, consciences, wills, affections, and their all are busied and im∣ployed, and that, as in and about their own proper and constant work and business. But other men do wholly mind, work, and imploy themselves in other matters, not at all in these. They onely mind and follow the things of the Flesh, whilst others do mostly mind the things of the Spirit, Rom. 8.5.6. Phil. 3.19, 20. Rege∣rate men do mostly mind how to please God: Carnal men how to please them elves. Rege∣nerate men do mind and endeavour to honour the will of God and obey it: Carnal men do

mind and endeavour to know their carnal Interests, and obey the will of the flesh. Re∣generate men do live in Heaven, converse with, delight in, and set their minds and affections on things above: Carnal men do onely converse with, live in, delight in, and set their mindes and affections on things here below. Regenerate men do mind and endeavour to be rich in grace and good works, Carnal men how to get, and keep the good things of this world. Regenerate men do make Religion their business: Carnal men do make sin their profits, and pleasures their business: Regenerate men do live in the Spirit, and walk in and after the Spirit: Carnal men do live in, and walk in the flesh, and the things thereof. These are some of the many diffe∣rences and contrarieties of regenerate and unregenerate men, which have now been pre∣sented to you, to help you to try your selves, and to make a right judgment of your states and conditions. Therefore, do you prove and examin your selves by them, whether you are in a regenerate or unregenerate state, yea or no. For as suredly, if you be regenerated and born againe, you may find many, if not all these marks and characters of regenerate per∣sons in and on you. You are indeed such persons (in measure) within and without, in heart and life, as you have heard regenerate persons are. And know, that if it be other∣wise with you, and you care not to know or find such real signes of regeneration in you, nor any other of like import; that then you

ought to fear and tremble, judge your selves, and conclude that you are (as yet) in an un∣regenerate state and condition, and under the curse and wrath of God. And if so, let me in the name of Christ, exhort and perswade you to go to God the Father, in Christ his name; and tell him how it is with you. Fall down before him; pray and beseech him to pitty you, and give regenerating Grace; and with all Importunity and Constancy cry to him, and wait for him, to come and give you new hearts, stamp his Image and divine na∣ture on you; and now with all possible speed to convert and make you new Creatures in∣deed.

CHAP. V. Shewing there are but few reall Regenerate Persons among the multitudes of Professors.

Q. THere are many great Professors of the Name and good ways of Jesus Christ in the world, which are called Christians: May we think or judge them all Regenerate persons? Are there many, or but few Regenerate persons? What shall we judge of this matter, for all Professors do pretend to, and would have men think them a singular and peculiar people; such as are in a good and happy state and condition; in which they cannot be, except they are indeed Regenerated.

Ans. That there are many great and high Professors of the holy Name, and good ways of Jesus Christ, is certain; and that there are but few really Regenerate persons among them, is as certain too. That they have the Name, and do own themselves Christians, is also apparent; but that they are not such in Truth (I mean the greater number) is clear and notorious, as will appear by and by. That they do pretend to, and would have men think them to be (what they are not indeed) namely, a singular and peculiar, and a happy people, is clear, and that they are not so, or such as they pretend to be, is evident also. Now this I shall (the Lord helping) prove and de∣monstrate to you, as well as I can, and I am

sure I have clear proof for what I say. That there are but a small number of Regenerate persons in the world, Comparatively, or if com∣pared to the number of such as seem or pro∣fess to be such, I shall evince by many Scrip∣ture Testimonies, Math. 7, 14. Because strait is the Gate, and narrow is the way that leadeth to life, and few there be that find it. Mark it, few there be that find it, namely, among, or of those that seek it, which the most of men do not. They do not so much as seek to be Regenera∣ted and saved in the Lords way. But of them who do really (though not rightly) seek to enter in at the strait Gate: I say, that such Professors shall not find it. This is further confirmed in Luke 13, 24. Strive to enter in at the strait Gate, (says Christ) why, because many shall seek to enter in, and shall not be able. Ano∣ther testimony is in Math. 20, 16. For many are called, but few are chosen: So Math. 22, 14. Christ calls his People, A little Flock, fear not little Flock, (says Christ) to and of his true Dis∣ciples, Lu••. 12, 32. And the Apostle Paul assures us; Rom. 9, 27. That although the number of the Children of Israel be as the sand of the Sea, a Rem∣nant shall be saved. Now, who or what kind of men were they which are so innumerable, and should not be saved were they the Hea∣thenish world, such as the Apostle saith, Eph. 2.12. Are strangers, without hope, and without God in the world: No, they were the Seed of Abraham, John 8, 37. To whom appertained the Adoption, and the Glory, and the Covenants, and the giving of the Law, and the service of God, and the

Promises, Rom. 9, 4. They were Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles, of whom he speaks, that they should perish and be damned. And yet there was amongst them a little flock, a small Remnant that should be saved; but these were comparatively, very few. For what is a small Remnant in number, compared with the innumerable sands of the Sea. God tells us in, Jer. 3.14. That he will take one of a City, and two of a family, and bring them to Sion. What is one or two to a City and Tribe, where were many thousands? and yet you see these are the num∣ber of Regenerated and saved persons. Thus you see the Truth Cleared and confirmed by many express Scriptures. But I shall further prove and explain this Truth, namely, that there are but a very few Regenerate men com∣paritively to the multitude of high Profes∣sors, thus. First, the Scripture, or the holy God in his Word, shews us, that there are but a few, a very small number that shall be saved (as was shewed) therefore there are but a few Regenerated; for all Regenerate persons shall be saved, 1 Pet. 1, 3, 4, 5. The Lord Jesus that knows the number of them to a man, having all their Names in the Book of Life, and calls them all by their Names, Revel. 21, ult. Joh. 10, 3. tells us so, and he knows very well what he saith: He is the Truth its self, Joh. 14.6. and there∣fore cannot deceive us, in and by what he speaks. We are taught this Doctrine by Christ, and therefore we may and must believe it as a real Truth: He certainly knows their persons, and number, though he keeps that

to himself, as a secret not fit for us to know. But although simply they are a great number, (no doubt on't) yet if compared to the num∣ber or multiude of unregenerate Professors, they are but a very small number. For (says the Lord Jesus) Many are called, but few are cho∣sen, Math. 23, 16. that is, many come to the Word and Ordinances of the Gospel, and there they are called upon to come to Christ, and believe in him: but they do not, will not come to him, nor accept him on his own tearms, John 5.40. But why not, why will they not answer Christs call, and come in on his Invitation? why, because they are not chosen. To the same purpose he speaks in John 10, 26. But ye believe not, because ye are not of my Sheep, as I said unto you.

Secondly, This Truth is further evidenced by their general frames, walking, and want af all those qualifications and Attainments that all new Creatures or Regenerate persons have. Regenerate men are Singular and peculiar men, Tit. 2.14. Caleb was a man of another Spirit and followed God fully; Numb. 14.24. he was of a choice, singular and Peculiar Spirit; much above and different from the Spirit of the Generality of the Con∣gregation with whom he walked. So all the Children of God are persons of another, name∣ly, of a Choice, Singular and Peculiar spirit. They differ as much from other men, as Gold from dross, Light from darkness, and in some sense, as good from evil. Their frames of heart, their qualifications and atttainments, and their carriages and walkings towards God

and men, are vastly different; for Regenerate men are men of other Spirits. They are (1) knowing men: they see and discern Spiritual things Spiritually, Eph. 1.18. 1. Cor. 2.12.13.14. They are Children of light, Eph. 5.8. But all others are Children of darkness, Eph. 5.8. 1 Pet. 2.9. Now how few are their Comparatively, that have the eies of their understandings thus en∣lightned? how few are their that see and un∣derstand the things of God, and the Lord Je∣sus Christ, with a Spiritual Judgment and dis∣cerning? Regenerate men, are men of wisdome, Mica. 6.9. they have hidden wisdom of God and divine things in them, 1 Cor. 2.7. But how few Spiritually wise Professors of the Gospel are there to be found? All other men are cal∣led fools in scripture, Pro. 1.7, 22, 32. Eccles. 5, 1. Eph. 5.15.

2. How few are there among the multitudes of Professors, that can indeed experience a real Change of heart and State? many, very many are reformed and have the outside changed, and that they think is Regeneration, when it is but a Reformation of their own, not a work of God on their hearts, making them new within, and changing their frame, habits and course. Nice∣demus was a reformed, but not a new man; his outside was clean, but his heart and Soul was unsanctified and in darkness, and so were the Scribes and Pharisees too, Math. 23.26, 27, 28. and Paul was in the same plight and condition likewise, before his conversation or Regeneration, Phil. 3.4, 5, 6. Acts 23.1. Concerning the Law (says he) I was blamless; and

I love walked in all good Conscience before God ••unt 〈◊〉〈◊〉 day.

3. How few are there that deny themselves, take 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the cross of Christ and follow him; without which day cannot be his disciples? Luk. 14.26.27. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 there any Self-deniers amongst them, but 〈◊〉〈◊〉 little flock, and smal Remnant? did not the ••••ng man in Luk. 18. Stick at this, and here Christ and he parted? and did not they in John 〈◊〉〈◊〉 tell Christ, this was a hard saying, and there∣upon went away from him, and walked no more with him, Joh. 6.60.66. Peter and the little ••ock came fully and freely up to his terms and continued with him, 67.68.69. Verses. How few are there, but are Lovers of pleasures, more th••n Lovers of God, 2 Tim. 3.4. that will deny themselves of any worldly, carnal pleasures, profits, or Interests for Christ, Grace, and ho∣siness, or so much as take any pains, be at any Costs, or deny themselves of any thing that is near and dear unto them, to please, and ho∣••our Christ; to have communion with and to be saved by him, in his own way?

4. How few are there that do seriously and in Good Earnest, seek and strive to be saved, that take the kingdome of Heaven by a holy violence, or that ran so, as if they were fully set and bent to ••in the prize and wear the Crown of life and Righ∣teousness? And yet all men and women that are Regenerated do, and all that shal win the prize, wear the Crown and obtain Salvation by Christ must so strive, run, and press into the king∣dom of Heaven, Luk. 13.24. Math. 11.12.1. 1 Cor. 9.24. Heb. 12.1. without which they

shall not obtain them. When God Regenerates men, he sets them a Running for an Incorruptible Crown; Striving to be saved, and to take the kingdom by a kind of violence. But assuredly there are but few professors who do so, and therefore there are but a smal number amongst them that are Regenerated. For were they such indeed, they would do all they can in the Lords own way to win the Crown of Righ∣teousness, in the true way of Righteousness. They would do all they can, to run so as to obtaine, would most freely lay aside all other business to attend on this, and suffer any thing rather than this Eternal concern should be neglected, as all truly regenerate persons do, and cannot but do. They would not act and do like the foolish Virgins, as the most do, namely, neglect to take Oyl in their Vessels with their Lamps, Math. 25. No, they would strive and labour night and day, to get Grace into their hearts, as well as Light into their heads, as the Wise Virgins did, and they would cry, and give God no rest, until they had wone the Prize, and got the Crown of life on their heads.

5. There are but a few wounded and brokes hearted Professors, and few who are indeed deeply and heartily sensible of their Misery and Sin, that do really see and feel their pressing need, and absolute necessity of Christ, and change of state; and therefore there are but a few Rege∣nerate persons among Professors; for all Rege∣nerate Persons are deeply sensible of, affected, and afflicted with their own deplorable states, and see an absolute necessity of Christ, and

interest in his Blood and Righteousness, as also a real change of their states, Phil. 3.7, 8, 9. ••••e not the generality of Professors, whole, see not, and feel not their sin and misery, nor any need of a Phisitian to heal and save them, Mat. 3.12, 13. Revel. 3.17.

6. There are but a small number of Professors, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 do indeed go out of themselves and take up in Christ, or that have the faith to believe in him, to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 saving of their Souls, Heb. 10. ult. There are many (indeed) that have a Faith, and pretend to believe in Christ so, John 8, 31. Acts 8. but very few have that faith to do so in Truth, neither do they much, if at all, desire and seek after such a Faith, but are pleased and satis∣fied well enough without it: Oh! how few are there, who have the Faith of Gods Elect, and their pretious Faith, that do Believe through ••race, and have that Faith which purifies the heart, and leads them forth, and carries them out of themselves to Christ, to take up in him only, Tit. 1, 1. 2 Pet. 1, 1. Acts 15, 9, Acts 18, 27. This they could and would do indeed, were they Regenerated, for (as hath been shewed) all such as are Regenerated do so, in and by the light and power of Christs grace in Rege∣neration.

7. How few are there among the great multi∣lades of professors that love God, the Lord Jesus Christ, his Grace, Laws, People, and Gospel Obedience, ••••re, or so much as they do their own Lusts, the world, and their own carnal profits, pleasures and honours; Oh! how few are there that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity, Eph. 6. ult. and with their

whole hearts, Math. 22.37. how few are there to be found, that have their hearts circumcised to love the Lord, and that have had the holy Ghost sheding abroad the love of God into their hearts, as all regenerate persons have, Deut. 30.6. Rom. 5.5. Is it not apparent that the most of pro∣fessors are strong and greedy, fervent and zealous Lovers of the world and carnal self, 2 Tim. 3.2. men shall in the last dayes (sayes Paul) be lovers of themselves, and of pleasures, more then God, Vers. 4. And is it not really so now with the greater number of professors, which shews they are in an unregenerate state and condition. For were they new Creatures indeed, they would love God, Jesus Christ, and heavenly things, as the great and onely objects of their lovely delight, choice and complacency. All other things would be to them, as they were to regenerate Paul: name∣ly, di•••• and dung, in comparison of Christ, Grace, Gospel-obedience, Holyness, Heaven and heavenly things, Phil. 3.

8. How few are there, who have, or are about the great work of Crucifying the flesh with the affections and lusts in good earnest; which were they ••ew Creatures indeed, they would assuredly be much concerned in, and busying themselves about, as one of their great and indispensible workes and businesses. For all regenerate persons are seriously exercising themselves in this work, Gall. 5.24. they 〈◊〉〈◊〉 purifying their hearts by faith, and perfecting holiness in the fear of God, Acts. 15.9. 1 Joh. 3.3. 2 Co. 7.1. But so are not the Generality of

professors: they are strangers, if not ene∣••ies to this work. They are (as was said) in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with them; they are their joy and de∣••ight, and who will seek and unfainedly en∣deavour to destroy them, they love, deilght, and take pleasure in? These are onely the works of regenerate men.

9. How few are there, who do unfainedly repent 〈◊〉〈◊〉 their Sins, and mourn night and day for their transgressions, are in real bitterness of soul, and abase, Judge and condemn themselves; which if they were regenerated, they would 〈◊〉〈◊〉. They would humble themselves, be asham∣ed of themselves for uncovering their naked∣ness and laying open their shame before God and men, and they would repent in dust and Ashes withall their hearts and Souls, Job. 42.5.6. Izek. 36.31. For this is the New Creatures dayly worke. Regenerate men have that be∣refit of Christ his Resurrection and Ascension as well as others, namely, Repentance, Acts 5.31. and that great grant and fruit of the Covenant of Grace, and the blood of it, Acts 11.18. Heb. 13.20. Repentance unto Life. By the power of which they practice Repentance. They have it in their hearts, and act it in their walk∣ings. They mark and observe what they should be, and what Errors and mistakes they are guilty of, mourn for it, and labor to mend them. But do the multitude of professors do so? no, not in the least: they cast these things out of all serious Consideration; it is a work they loath and wholly neglect. It is too low and base business for them to mind or concern

10. How few are there among the multitudes of professors, who make it their business to please and honour God; to fear and reverence him, and to wor∣ship him in Spirit and Truth? This, or these matters would be strong and powerful on their hearts and Souls, and they would labour to do it indeed, were they regenerated. For all regenerate men have it so on their hearts, and they do really aim at and endeavour it (as was before proved) Phill. 3.3. God hath wrought in them that which is well-pleasing in his sight, Heb. 13.21. and to worship him in Spirit and Truth, Joh. 4.23. They are formed by Grace to ho∣nour and magnifie God, and to make it their work and business, Isa. 43.21. and are creat∣ed in Christ Jesus unto this and all other good works, Eph. 2.10. They are renewed in knowledge to understand them, and with power and will to do them, Coll. 3.10. Phil. 2.13. Psal. 110.3. But where are such persons to be found among Professors? O! how few, how this are they sown, and how rarely do they appear, if compared with others? how few have the power of Godliness, in comparison of them, who take up with the meer forme? how few professors are Spiritually minded persons, who set their Af∣fections on things above, and not on things below? Coll. 3.1. 2 Rom. 8.5.6. and that have thee Conversation or 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉. Trade in heaven, Phil. 3.20. how few are their who guard and watch themselves and their Souls adversaries, and keep their hearts with all diligence, or above & before all things? Pro. 4, 23. how few are there who labour and make it their Trade and bu∣siness,

to be fruitful in every good worke, and dound in the work of the Lord; to bear much fruit unto Eternal Life, and all that God may be glorified, and their own Souls profited and saved by Grace? Coll. 1.10. 1 Cor. 15. ult. J••b. 15.8. Rom. 6.22. How few are there who do unfainedly minde and labour to walk sincerely and uprightly with God and before him, and to adorn the Gospel of our Lord Jesus. Surely very few do and are so indeed. Only a little, little flock do; they and they only are such persons within, and walk so without; as hath been shewed. From which Proofs and Instances we may certainly conclude, that there are but a very few, a small number of Re∣generate persons among the multitudes of professors. I have (I think) said enough for the confirming and clearing of this Truth, al∣though I could say much more to and of it, were it needful. Now then, what use and Im∣provement should we all make of this Truth? Surely it is a great Truth, and that which doth very much and nearly concern us all and every one.

1. Such as are Regenerated, and have suffi∣cient proof of it, that they are so indeed, why, they should consider and lay to heart their great priviledge and singular happiness in their Regeneration, and that Exceeding great love and Grace of God that have been put forth and expended on them, to make them new Creatures, and they ••ould labour to walk worthy of so high a calling to which they are called in and by their Regeneration.

And declare that they are in Truth a Choice and a peculiar people.

2. This Truth should be considered and laid to heart by all sorts of professors, to cause them to fear and tremble, and to look with all seri∣ousness and diligence into their states and Souls Concernments. To search and try the bottomes they build upon, and see indeed if they will hold and stand them in stead in the great day of Gods tryal: which tryal they must pass under and come to. That they may no more delude themselves, and say they shall have peace, while they continue Re∣generate and in a State of sin and death. The most of professors are willingly Ignorant of their own conditions, and of what is likely to be their future State. If there are, but few Regenerate men among professors, and they are such a people (as was proved) then the most of you may conclude that you are unre∣generate, because you are not indeed such a people.

CHAP. VI. Of the Priviledges and Happiness of Regenerate Men.

Q. WHat are the singular priviledges and peculiar happinesses of regenerate per∣sons. For if they differ so much in their frames of ••eart, carriages, and walkings in their principles, and endeavours from other men that are not regene∣rated; then surely they have some special privi∣ledges and blessednesses beyond other men? shew us therefore what they are, that we may know them.

Ans. Regenerat persons are possessed of, have right unto, and Interest in many and singular Priviledges and happinesses, is most certain. And indeed they are the only priviledged and happy men and women in the world. Others have not, neither can, or may they claim any at all, whilst they continue in their Unregenerate states. Regenerate persons have all the Spiri∣tual, Divine, and Heavenly priviledges given and granted to them, and likewise eternal happiness: but the truth is, others have none at all. For they are not, neither will they be in∣cluded in the great Charter, in and by which new creatures do receive and hold their privi∣ledges. They will not be of, nor come into the holy and Spiritual Corporation of regenerate men; neither will they own, value and accept their priviledges, in the way that the great

Lord and King hath appointed and command∣ed. But all are regenerate persons right and due. All (such the Apostle) is yours, 1 Cor. 3.22 Some of them I shall present unto you; to comfort and incourage you in your walking with God unto all well-pleasing, as now you are bound to do.

1. You that are Regenerated, must call and ac∣count all whatever was said of you before, namely, wherein you are by Grace made to differ from othermen, your priviledges; for they are great and real privi∣ledges indeed. For is not your change of state, or your Regeneration by special Grace, a great and glorious Priviledge? Is it not an exceed∣ing great priviledge to be renewed in knowledg, after the image of God, Col. 3.10. And to be created in Christ Jesus unto good workes? Eph. 2.10. To be ho••n again of incorruptible seed, 1 Pet. 1.23. and be made partakers of the divine or hea∣venly nature? 2 Pet. 1.4. Surely it is. Oh! my bretheren, is it not an inestimable priviledge to be made Child en of light, who were Chil∣dren of darkness, 1 Pet. 2.9. And to be made the Children of God, who were the Children of the Devil? Joh. 8.44. Is it nor a great priviledge to have the Love of God shed abroad into your hearts, and been abled thereby to love God with all your hearts, as commanded? Math. 22.37. Is it not a great priviledge to have new and Spiritual Senses, Passions or Affections, and to be quickned and raised from death to life, as you are? Is it not a great priviledge to be called too, and imployed in and about Spiri∣tual and heavenly workes, and that with Spi∣rits,

Frames, and Dispositions suited to them? why, all these and many others (as you heard before) are yours, and so you ought to look upon and esteem them; to rejoice in, and bless God for them.

2. By Regeneration you are made Free-men. You are now no more Bond-men, but the Lords Free-men, Gal. 5.1. You are no more strangers and Forreigners, no, what are you then, why, you are by Christ, in your Regeneration, made fellow Citizens with the Saints, and of the Houshold of God, Eph. 2.19. The Lord Jesus hath made you Free of his Spiritual and Hea∣venly City and Corporation, and therefore you are free indeed, Joh. 8.36. hence the A∣postle tells regenerate Servants, that they are the Lords Freemen, 1 Cor. 7.22. though they were the servants of men. And he further assures such, that they are of the free Jerusalem, and Children of the free Woman, Gal. 4.36. ult. Here I shall briefly shew you what your free∣dome and liberty is. 1. what you are freed from. 2. what freed for or to.

1. You are freed from the dominion and ruledome of Sin, you were before your Regeneration the Servants of Sin, and in subjection to your Lust, But now you are fully delivered from the dominion of that Lord, by Christ, in your Regeneration, Rom. 6.14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 22. your sin and lusts may now disturb and afflict you, and they may and will distract, and trouble you. They will assault and delude you, and they will dwell in you and pursue you, obstruct and hinder you of, and in your good

works and duties, yea, pollute and defile them. But now for your comfort, that they shall no more reign over you, rule and command you as they did, for you are called out and off from their dominion.

2. You are freed from the devils yoke and rule∣dome. He was your Prince, and your God, and ruled in and over you, 2 Cor. 4.4. Eph. 2.2. although you knew it not then, for the Scrip∣ture saith that the Devil had blinded the mindes of such as did not believe, (which you did not, until you were Regenerated) lest the light of the glorious Gospel of Christ, should shine unto them. You were his Servants, and that with your own consents; ye are of your Father the Devil (says Christ) and his lusts ye will do, Joh. 8, 44. That is, you were not forced and constrained by him to it, but you did obey and serve him as Volunteers, willingly and chearfully, his lusts ye will do. All men by nature are dilivered o∣ver (by the great God) into the Devils hand: not absolutely so, for God still keeps his do∣minion over his Creatures, but as a Judge de∣livers up a Rebel unto a Jaylor to keep, and order him. So when we had rebelled against God, transgressed his holy Law, hearkned to, and obeyed the Devil rather then God, Gen. 3. then God gave up and delivered them over to Satan (as his Jaylor) as they were condemned Rebels, that had thrown off his Authority and Government, and chosen the Devils counsel and service before his. Then says God, take them Jaylor, let them be thy servants and sub∣jects, seeing they do so well like thy service

and advice. They are weary of, and do re∣fuse my easy yoke, ••e now put them under thine; do thou rule over them. Hence the Scripture calls him their God and Prince; and tells us, that we are his Captives, and Bond-men or Servants, 2 Tim. 2. ult. Heb. 2.14.15. But from this Cruel Lord you are set at liberty, in your re∣generation. Then the Lord Christ commands the Devil to deliver you up to him, and let Prisoners go free, Isa. 61.1. 2 They are mine faith Christ, for they were given to me, Joh. 10.29. And of them which thou hast given me, I will lose none, Joh. 6.39. For although they were thine as they were Rebels against God, and therefore delivered to thee; yet now they are and shall be mine, Heb. 2.15. Rege∣nerate men are so delivered from Satan and brought out of his kingdome, as never more to return again to their old Service and bon∣dage. For when the Son makes men free, they are, and shall be free indeed, Joh 8.36. It is true that the Devil will never cease to vex and disquiet you, to tempt and disturb you, and to afflict and distract you; but be of good Chear, he shall never have the rule and dominion over you any more, but you shall prevaile against, and rule over him. For you are not his, but Christs Servants and subjects.

3. You are freed from the Law, as a Law and Covenant of works. So that as such, it shall nei∣ther Command, Condemn, or Curse you; for you are d••livered from it, and brought under the Law to Christ, 1 Cor. 9.21. That is, you are un∣der the matter and precepts of the Law, to be

a Rule of your obedience and walking with God, as it is Gospellized in the hand of the Medi∣atour, annexed to the Covenant of Grace, and made the preceptive part of it; and as it is (as it were) moulded and fitted to the state, frame, and Condition of new Creatures, or the Children of God, and to the nature of their Gospel o∣bedience. But otherwise, as was said, you are not under it, but delivered from it by Christ in your Regeneration. For being made new Creatures, and married to Christ, you are brought under the new Law and Covenant, Rom. 8.1.2. Rom. 6.14. Rom. 7.1-7. I will (Says God) Cause you to pass under the Rod, and bring you into the bond of the Covenant, Ezek. 20.37. The matter of the Law is the Rule of your o∣bedience, as it is the Revelation of the mind and will of God, and as his Authority over you, is in it, requiring your subjection and conformity thereunto; so you are under it, and it commands you: but not simply as a Law of workes, as in its first make, and pro∣mulgation, for and to men as Gods reason∣able Creatures; and by, or as respecting him as their Creator and Sovereign Lord, only or mostly: no, but as their reconciled Father and God, and respecting them as his Children, begotten by him unto Obedience, that is, Gospel filial obedience and newness of Life, 1 Pet. 1.3.4. Rom. 6.4. Rom. 7.6. For as men are cre∣ated in Christ Jesus unto good works, and made new Creatures by his Grace, so all things are become new, in, to, and for them, 2 Cor. 5.17. Their State is changed, their Relation Chang∣ed,

their obedience and some of the ends of it (in a Sense) are changed also. So that now they are dead to the Law, and are not under it, but under the Law of Grace. This is another of your Liberties and Immunities.

4. You are freed from Guilt and grounded fears. I do not say you are freed from the Just Accu∣sations of Conscience when you sin, or ground∣less distracting fears, but from guilt, as it bindes you over to Eternal punishment and wrath of God, and from grounded fears there∣of, for your Miscarriages. It is a choice mercy and a great priviledge to have our Consciences speaking to us, telling us of, and accusing us for Sinning, and to have the passion of fear in us, to affright us from, and keep or hold us back from sin. But it is a grevious bondage to be, and lye under that guilt, which binds us over to punishment, and that which makes us afraid of God, his Law and Justice; filling us with amazing, disquieting, and dreadful thoughts of God. Or else God would not have promised to give his people deliverance from them, as his great mercy and kindness to them in Christ, as he hath done, Pro. 1. ult. Luk. 1.73.74. And Christ would not have shed his pretious blood for their deliverance, as he hath done, Heb. 9.14. if the one had not been a great Judgment to them, namely, their being under such Guilt and fears; and their delive∣rance from them, their great and invaluable mercy.

5. You are freed from the curse and wrath of God. For in and by Regeneration you are enabled

to, and you do believe in, and accept of him who hath born the Curse and Wrath of God, and delivered you, 1 Thes. 1. ult. Gal. 3.13. So that now the Curse of the Law is taken off from your Souls, and you are and shall be blessed; yea, the blessing of Abraham is come on you, upon the removal of the Curs, and you are now really blessed, and so called by the great God, Gal. 3.14. Math. 5.2.12. and not onely blessed your selves, but a blessing also to others, Isa 19.24. Pro. 11.11. So likewise the Wrath of God is turned into love to them; Eph. 2.4. and they shall never fall under his wrath and curse any more, although they do fall into Sin. But if Regenerate men do care∣lesly or wilfully Sin as David and Peter did, they shall feell the effects of his fatherly dis∣pleasure, and smart for their follies, but the Curse and Wrath of God shall never return a∣gaine upon their Souls. This is another of your great and Glorious Priviledges, who are Regenerated. But all other men are under the wrath and curse of God, although they will not believe they are so; yet nevertheless they are, Joh. 3. ult. Gal. 3.10.

6, You are freed from Blindness of mind, and Hardness of heart, under which you were held, in your unregenerate states and conditions. You were then Darkness, and held fast under gross Dark∣ness, Eph. 5.8. 1 Pet. 2.9. 1 Joh. 2.11. Your Lusts and the Devil, yea, the Justice of God also, had blinded the Eies of your mindes; so that you saw not, knew not your Sin, dan∣ger or misery; now the way how to escape

and obtain deliverance. You were ready to ••••mble into Hell Flames every moment, but understood it not; and that when you thought you saw your selves in a safe and secure state, and would by no meanes believe the contrary of your selves. For you were held in the chaines of Spiritual Darkness. But now you are privi∣ledged with spiritual saving light. Now you are Light in the Lord, Children of Light, brought ••••t of darkness into marvellous Light, and you may now walk as Children of Light, in the light of Christ, Eph. 5.8. 1 Pet. 2.9. Now you are no more Fools but Wise, Eph. 5.15. For the wisdome of Christ is in you. And you are de∣livered from that hardness, and impenitency of hearts, under which you were as prisoners, ••••n. 2.4.5. Your regenerating Grace hath s••••tned and melted you, broken your hearts, and made your Consciences soft and tender; so that you who were once hard-hearted Sauls, are now mourning Pauls, and you who were hard-hearted Nabels, are now weeping Jere∣••••es. This is certainly your priviledge in your regenerate states.

7. You are freed from that pernitious self that h••••d you Captives in its Chains. Before your Re∣generation, you were enslaved to your selves. You were not onely servants to your Lusts, but to your selves also. You were kept from Christ by your carnal self and spiritual self. Your selfulness, self-righteousness, self-abi∣lities, and self-confidences, ruled and swayed you, disswaded and beguiled you from be∣lieving, repenting, and seeking after Rege∣ration.

You were wedded to your own con∣ceits and misguided apprehensions of your selves, and yielded up your selves to their counsels and delusion. Self was in the Top and Bottome of all, so as that you could not once think seriously of your selves, states, and ways, and of Regeneration, and how to be saved; but one self or other, would interpose, to draw & hold you back from prosecuting what was begun in and by you. For by and by, they would arise and appeare to you, telling you that all was well. You had enough of this and that, to make you happy, and therefore what need to trouble your selves about such matters: But eat, drink, and be merry, for you have much goods laid up in store for many yeares, Luk. 12.19. Therefore says self-ease, and self-confi∣dence, and security, thou hast Righteousness and worthiness, worldly comforts, and abili∣ties enough, to make the a happy man here, and hereafter, and that is enough for thee, for what wouldst thou have? But now you are delivered by Grace, from the power and reigning prevelency of your captivating Selfe, which is a great priviledge.

2. You are not only freed from these and many other evils and bondages, but you are set at liberty and freed to many other priviledges also. I shall name a few, 1. you are made Free-men for God. You are 'tis true, his Servants, but your condition and service is not your bondage, but your liberty, freedome and priviledge. And therefore the servants of God are called his free-men, as was shewed, 1 Cor. 7.22.

And Rom. 6.22. They are (said to be) made free from Sin, and become the Servants of God, and so have their fruit unto holiness; you are made 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to serve God without fear in holiness and Righ∣••••••sness all your dayes, Luk. 1.73.74. This is a ••••eedome or priviledge which you had not the enjoyment of, when you were unregene∣rated, but now it is yours, you are freed from ••any Bondages, and made free to and for his service; which is most easy. 2. You are made free to serve God without fear, Che••••fully, Obedi∣••••tly, Joyfully, and in Faith and Hope of pleasing God, and being assisted, accepted, and rewarded of 〈◊〉〈◊〉; which you could not do before. It was not your priviledge, neither had you where∣withal to do it, before you were Regene∣rated and made new Creatures, by his spirit and grace. But now being such, you are in a Capacity to do it, and you can and will so serve God. You are made free not onely to do God service, but so to serve him, that is freely, readily, chearfully, joyfully, thank∣fully, and in faith and hope; yea, you may now serve him obediently too, namely, with the Gospel obedience of Children, or Child like obedience, 1 Pet. 1.14.3. You are freed and priviledged to be fellow Citizens of the Saints, and of the houshold of God; Eph. 2.19. you are Incorporated with them in the heavenly Jerusa∣lem, and made partakers of their Charter, of their liberties & Immunities, and have the pri∣riledge of Trading where they Trade, and in the same heavenly commodities; which un∣til you were regenerated you could not do. 4. You are freed and priviledged to and with all

the fullness of Christ, and good of the Covenant of Grace. For by the Spirit and Grace of God in your Regeneration, you are put into Christ, and under all the Grace and Blessings of the Covenant. You are in a capacity of receiving and in a condition of claiming them. They are all yours by Gods everlasting Grant of them to Christ for you, and in your behalf, 2 Tim. 1.9. Tit. 1.2. They were given or granted to you, and Christ received them for you, when you were given to Christ in election, and Christ accepted and received you at the hand of God, Joh. 17.6. Thine they were, and thou gavest them me. This was hid from you before you were Regenerated, but now they are brought to light and entailed on you, as re∣generate persons. And the way is opened to you to find and take them, to claim and fetch them, to apply and appropriate them unto your selves. These are some of your priviled∣ges and immunities, as you are Gods freemen. I could name many more but that I may not be large, beside my intendment.

3. You are Pardoned and Justified. All your Sins and Iniquities are cross'd out of Gods Book, and cast out of his remembrance. They are all put on the head of the scape Goat, and sent away into the wilderness or land of forget∣fulness, never to return any more to you, or be layd to your Charge. And you are fully acquitted and cleared from all Guilt and Punishment, as the fruit and wages of Sin. The Righteousness of Christ is accounted and imputed to you, and your sins guilt and pu∣nishment to Christ, and so you are declared

just and righteous in Law, and you are made the lighteousness of God in him, Jer. 31, 34. Heb. 10.17. 2 Cor. 5. ult. Rom. 4.24, 25. Isa. 53.11. All such as God sanctifies, he justifies, Rom. 8.29, 30. that by the first fruits of their san∣dification, which is their Regeneration, they might be enabled to believe to justification of ••••fe, as the Apostle speaks, Rom. 5.18. and unto the saving of the Soul, Heb. 10. ult. for by the Faith they obtain in Regeneration, they do so believe, as to be justified, (not for) but through or by their believing. You may hence∣forth, all your dayes, pray for, believe, and expect the Pardon of your daily sins, of all sorts of sins; and that notwithstanding your frequent slips and failings, you shall not be laid under guilt, and be any more unjustified, or put into an unjustified state. But you may freely and constantly go to the Court of Ju∣stice and Mercy, and crave Pardon of all your sins, and take out sealed Pardons, through the Blood of the Everlasting Covenant. For Christ gave himself, to Redeem you from all Iniquity, Tit. 2.14. so that you are now in and by believing, made free from sin, and stand as clear in Christs Righteousness, and Gods Justification, as if you had never sinned. This is another of your glorious Priviledges, who are New Creatures.

4. You are Priviledged with great Interest in Christ, and God the Father by him, and have free ••ccess to him at all times in your dutiful carriages, and obedient walkings towards him. You have great interest in, and power with God, and you are priviledg'd with open ingress to him. His

doors stands always open to let you into his Presence Chamber, for the Lord Jesus hath opened them for you, and none can shut them against you. You have this great Master of Requests waiting on, or rather sitting by the great God, and waiting for you, that when you come with your Petitions, you may find him ready to attend, and prosecute your concerns in Heaven for you, Heb. 7.25. Heb. 9.24. Rom. 8.34. You have his heart, and he hath always his Fathers ear, Job. 11.42. so that you need never fear any miscarriage of, or in your businesses there. And be sure that all your greatest concerns lie in his hand, and he is engaged to you, and to his Father for you, to mind and mannage them to your advantage. For he tells us, That he would go to Heaven, and pray the Father for you, Job. 14, 16. and hath told us since he went to Heaven, that he was always attending on it, Heb. 7.25. Before he left the World, in his last Will and Testament, he bequeathing this Priviledge unto his People, and left it as a part of their Lega∣cy, to and for them, that we might have what we would of him, Joh. 14, 13, 14. And he gives us all possible assurance of it, by his Asseverations, Verily, verily, vers. 12. (says he) I say unto you, that whatsoever ye shall ask the Fa∣ther in my Name, that will I do. And then he further confirms his grant and promise, by an Argument taken from his Father, his con∣cern and interest in his so doing, namely, That the Father may be glorified in the Son; that is, by the grant he had given his people, of

power and interest in him, to make use of him, and using his Name at the Throne of Grace with his Father; as also his praying and ap∣pearing for them, to and with his Father, and carrying on his peoples concernments there, ••is Father would take it as his honour, con∣cern, and interest. This Truth is evidenced and confirmed throughout the Gospel, in in∣numerable places. As in Joh. 15.7. Joh. 16. This is another of your great and dear bought Priviledges, which are confer'd on you, and put into your possession in Regeneration. For assuredly other men have it not, neither had it you before. I pray for them, I pray not for the world, no, but for them which thou hast given me out of the world, for they are thine and mine, says Christ, Joh. 17. Other men have nothing to do with me in this matter, nor I with them; I pray for my Sheep, my Members, my Believers, my New Creatures. For such as have chosen me for their King and High Priest; to govern and interceed for them. These are the persons for whom I have shed my Blood, and for whose Souls I sacrificed my Life to Divine Justice. These are the men that I have dearly bought, and those are the persons that wear my Livery, and bear my Image, and therefore I pray for them. They lie deep in my Affecti∣ons, and so do I in theirs. They are near and dear to me, and so am I to them likewise. I have promised this priviledge to them, and they have thankfully accepted it, and kindly embraced it. They make use of me, and have their eyes and dependence on me, to appear

for them in Heaven; and therefore they may come boldly to my Throne of Grace, and find favour and Grace, to help in time of need, Heb. 4. ult. These my New Creatures may ask of me what they will, and it shall be done to them, Job. 15.7. And as they have great Interest in the ear and heart of Christ, and may be familiarly bold with him; as he doth and will pray for, and mannage their concerns in Heaven for them; so they have free access unto the Fa∣ther, and a great interest in his ear and heart also, upon Christs account. Hence the Lord Jesus tells his Disciples, when he was comfor∣ting and encouraging them, and pouring out (as it were) his heart and Bowels of Love un∣to them: I say not that I will pray the Father for you, for the Father himself loveth you, Joh. 16, 26, 27. That is, your heavenly Father hath such Love and Affection for you, and your interest is so great in him, upon my account, that if I should hold my peace, and not speak a word to him in your behalfs, yet he hath Grace and Love enough to and for you, and that he will also mind your concernments. And you may go to him in my Name, and make use of him in all your matters and businesses.

5. All the promises that are made and given, appointed and intended for the Saints and People of God in the Gospel are yours. All the promises of Grace, and to Grace and Gospel obedience, with all the good, all the marrow and fatness of them, are yours. Not a Hony-comb in all the Hive of the Gospel-Covenant, but what will yield you some drops of hony and

sweetness. And you being new Creatures, and married to Christ (in whom are all the Promises, yea and amen) 2 Cor. 1.20. all the Promises are your Dowry and Portion. They are all Intayled on, and made over to you: they are your great Pattent and Charter, for all Grace and Glory, and by which you may plead, and do hold your Right and Title to Grace, and Christ hear, and Eternall Life hereafter. For if all things be yours, as the Gospel saith they are, 1 Cor. 3.22. Then all the Promises of the new Covenant are yours likewise; And with a holy boldness, you may Claim and appro∣priate them, and all the milk and hony of them to your selves, as yours by Grant and Purchase. Are you indeed and in Truth, Re∣generate Persons? why, then rejoyce and be exceeding glad, for the great Charter of hea∣ven is yours. You are of the little, holy, and heavenly corporation and City, Citizens of the new Jerusalem, that came down from hea∣ven, and therefore you have a Right unto, and Interest in all the promises of the life that now is, and of that which is to come, 1 Tim. 4.8. You have the promises of all Grace and happiness, and for whatever you need, and much more. To instance in a few of many, and that briefly.

1. You have the Promises of pardon; of the Par∣don of all your Sins for time to come, Exod. 34.6, 7. Isa. 55.7. Jer. 31.34. hence the Lord Jesus commands and directs them, Namely, you that are Gods Children, to Pray, Our Father forgive us our Trespasses, Math. 6.12. And Paul

tells us from Christ, that there is now no con∣demnation to them, which are in Christ Jesus, Rom. 8.1. and if there be indeed no condemnation, then no Sin unpardoned. To the same pur∣pose Christ speaks in Joh. 5.24. He that is passed from Death to Life, (as all Regenerate Persons are) shall not come into Condemnation. Therefore encourage your selves in true holiness hereby.

2. You have the Promises of Cleansing and Healing you, or of Gods sanctifying and puri∣fying your hearts, Hosea. 14.4. For which end and purpose, among other, Christ gave himself, Tit. 2.14. Eph. 5.25.26. And sets o∣pen the Fountain, to flow in upon us, Zach. 13.1. And, Ezek. 36.25.26.27. I will sprinkle clean Water on them, and they shall be clean, and from all their filthiness, and from all their Idols will I cleanse them.

3. You have promises of perseverance in Godly∣ness unto the end of your race, until you have finished your course here, you shall be kept by the power of God, through faith unto salvation, 1 Pet. 1.5. And my sheep follow me, and I give to them eternal Life, and they shall never Perish, neither shall any take them out of my hand, Joh. 10.27.28.29. More∣over God tells us, that for our more certain and full assurance of our safety and security, he will keep us, water us every moment, yea, and keep us Night and Day, Isa. 27.2.3. And en∣gages himself, that whatever enemies beset us round about, and seek to devour us, that he will watch us, and be our defence; by be∣ing a wall of Fire round about us, Zach. 2.5. God hath promised, that he will put his fear into

their hearts, and they shall not depart from him, Jer. 32.40. and that his Children shall call him my Father, and shall not turn away from him, Jer. 3.19. They have underneath them the Everlasting Armes, and they are held in his hand. They are safe within the walls of their Fathers house, and are guarded with the holy Angells. Their victory over all their enemies is sure, because they are ever under the Con∣duct of their great Captain, Christ, and fight under his Banner, in his cause and quarrel, with his Armor of proof, who hath all their enemies under his feet. Their Lusts, the world and Devil are all in subjection unto your great King and Captain. And because the Victory is sure on our side, as fighting under him, he is stiled the Captain of our salvation. And there∣fore you may be sure you shall not Perish. For you have all possible security from him, and his Father, to strengthen and encourage, to fence and arme you against all your own fears, weakness, and temptations whatsoever. Even the Gates of Hell shall not be able to prevaile against you. But if you are in a state of Grace, you shall most certainly run your Race, win the Prize, and wear the Crown of Righteous∣ness. For you have their bonds for your secu∣rity, who are both able & faithful to perform and make them good, to you and to all who shall trust and rely on them for the doing of it.

4. You have promises of Peace. This is one of your husbands Legacies to you, Joh. 14.27. Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you, not as the world giveth, give I unto you. And in Joh. 16.

ult. In the world (saith Christ) ye shall have tri∣bulation, but in me ye shall have peace. And Glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh Righ∣teousness, Rom. 2.10. and as many as walk accord∣ing to this Rule, peace be to them, Gal. 6.16. So in Phil. 4.7. And the peace of God shall keep your hearts and minds. This Spiritual peace, is a fruit of Gods Love, and the mediation of Christ: of our Justification and Sincerity of heart to∣wards God and men. For he is our peace, Eph. 2.14. and being Justifyed by faith, we have peace with God, Rom. 5.1. Those that know and have experienced the great and sore Affliction and trouble of a wounded Conscience, which none can bear, Pro. 18.14. and the load and weight of guilt and fear on the Soul, can give a better account of the worth and Excellency of this peace of God. For indeed it is so great, that it passeth all understanding, Phill. 4.7.

5. Satisfaction. You have the promisses of being satisfied with good. The meaning is not, so to be satisfied with what we have, as not to desire and seek for more of that, and other mercies, no, but to be satisfied with, and in the will and disposements of God, and the measure of our present Enjoyments, untill God shall augment them, Joh. 4.14. But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him, shall never thirst, Isa. 58.10. Jer. 31.14.25. It is a great mercy to have a satisfied and con∣tented Spirit with Gods Allowance, and at the same time to endeavour after more. An unsa∣tisfied Spirit is very sinful, grievous & vexati∣ous to a mans own Soul. He enjoys not what he

hath, that is not satisfied in the will of God, ••••ith his portion and measure. God dispences ••is favours, according to his sovereign wisdom, Will and Grace; he gives two Talents to one ser∣vant, and to another five, Math. 25. to declare and make known to men his soveraignty and dominion over them; and that he doth in Heaven and Earth whatsoever pleaseth him. That he will not dispose of his favors according to our wills, but his one.

6. You have promises of Assistance in your duties, or of a supply of the Spirit of Grace, and the Grace of the Spirit, to enable you to performe them according to the will of God, even to ac∣ceptation in Heaven, Phill. 4.19. And my God shall supply all your wants, Psal. 84.11. The Lord God is a Sun and shield: he will give Grace and Glory; and no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly: as all Regenerate men may do. The holy Spirit is promised to help our Infirmities, and enable us to do the will of God acceptably, Rom. 8.26, 27. Zach. 12.10. And fear not Jacob my Servant, although thou art a worm, a poor weak Creature; yet seeing thou art a New Creature, I will help thee, yea, I will strengthen thee, yea, I will uphold thee with the Right hand of my Righteousness, Isa. 41.10, 13, 14. He giveth power to the Saint, and to them that have no might, he encreaseth strength; That they that wait on him may encrease their strength, to run and not be weary, Isa. 40.29, 31. so that whatever God calls you to, and sets you upon, be sure that he will fully enable you to do it, how weak soever you are, in and of your selves.

For God is strong and faithful, who hath pro∣mised it.

7. Joy and Consolation. God hath priviledged you with promises of rejoycing your hearts, and of causing you to Sing for joy of heart, when others shall howl for vexation of Spirit, Isa. 65.13, 14. This is also one of your Husbands Le∣gacies, which he bequearned to you, in his last Will and Testament, and therefore you may look for, and confidently expect it of him, John 15.11. These things have I spoken unto you, that my Joy may remain in you, and that your Joy might be full; so in John 16.20. But your Sorrow shall be turned into Joy. And your hearts shall re∣joyce, and your Joy no man shall take from you, vers. 22. And in verse 24. Ask and ye shall receive, that your Joy may be full. For this end he hath promised and bequeathed, not only the Con∣solations and Joys of the Spirit, but the abi∣ding presence of the Spirit himself, who is to convey and impart them unto his people, Joh. 14, 16, 17. And calls him therefore, the Com∣forter, as in that Text, so in John 14.26. and in the 15. Chapt. 26. and in the 16. Chapt. 7.

8. You have promises of being taught of God, and of being made wise unto Salvation. You are already renewed in knowledge, Col. 3.10. and now you shall be tutored up by Christ your Prophet; so that you shall be still encreasing in the knowledge of God, Christ, Duty, and heaven∣ly things, John 7.17. Eph. 4.15. 1 Cor. 2.12. Isa. 54.13. Psal. 84.7. John 6.45. Men teach by Gods Appointment, and it is his Ordinance for ever, which all men are bound to attend

unto and wait on, as it is the Ordinance of God to them for Good, in and by which God will teach men, Math. 28.19, 20. Eph. 4.11.—17. and God teaches also. God teaches, and reaches the heart with his teaching, but so cannot mens teaching do of themselves. God teaches men powerfully, convincingly, and effectually, and they only are made truly wise, whom God teaches by his Spirit. Now this is one of your Priviledges, that you are the willing Scholars of Jesus Christ. You have chosen him for your Prophet and Teacher, and he hath cho∣sen, and accepted you, for his Schollars, and it is your desire to be taught of him, all the things that do concern his Glory, and your duty and happiness: You have him engaged to you to teach you, and cause you to grow in grace, and in the knowledge of all things you are to know; and you may and ought to believe that he will do it. To make use of him, apply your selves unto him, rely on and expect it of him.

9. You have promises of a sanctifyed use of all his dispensations towards you, and that all things shall worke together for your good. Your afflictions and chastisements shall not hurt, but better you, not spoyl, but make you. God shoots not his Arrows at rovers, neither doth he lay his Corrisives beside your soars, or apply an im∣proper or ineffectual Medicine to your wounds. He is an alseeing and alsufficient Phisitian, and thorrowly discerns you maladies, and what doth aile you: and he can give you suitable Playsters, and Physick for your distempers,

Psal. 103.13.14. And what he can, that he will, (in this matter) do for you. For your profit and care, your health, prosperity and salvation, are the things that are in his Eye, and heart. All things shall work together for your good; for you are his called ones, and such as he loves, and you are such as love him, Rom. 8.28. doth your Father and Lord chastize you, and make you smart? why, the fruit of all is to humble you; to take a way Sin, which you are willing to part withal, and to make you partakers of his ho∣lyness, and the like blessed and gracious ends and disigns, are in his Eye and heart, Duter. 8.15.16. Isa. 27.7.8.9. Heb. 12.10.11,

10. You have promises of eternal Life, and e∣verlasting Blessedness with God in Heaven. You have promises of an Incorruptible Inheritance, 1 Pet. 1.4. to which you are begotten and born. You have promises of a Crown of Life, Revel. 2.10. Jam. 1.12. Of Righteousness, 2 Tim. 4.8. And of Glory, 1 Pet. 5.4. You have promises of Living and Reigning with Christ, and of being and abiding where he is, and with him, Revel. 20. Rev. 5.10. Joh. 17. And of seeing him as he is, 1 Job. 3.2. You have promises of Christ his coming in Glorious state, to fetch you home to his King∣dome, and Palace of Holiness, Glory and Joy; of Honour, Dignity, and Renown, Math. 25.32.33. Rev. 19. 1 Thes. 4.16.17. Joh. 14.3. You have an Eternal weight of Glory laid up in Heaven for you, and Christ is bound to secure it for, and give it to you. You have a blessed Hope and great Glory laid up for you, and the Lord Jesus hath engaged himself to put you

into the possession of all, in his time. It is as sure, as if you had the whole already in your own hands, and you must believe and expect it; for neither height nor depth, nor any thing shall prevent or disappoint you of it. All the great things promised you, are yours, they are your own. They are all yours by an ever∣lasting grant, of God the Father, and by the purchase of Christ; I mean, they are the Price of his Blood, and the fruits of the travail of his Soul. And therefore look for them, and live in continual expectation of them, as of certain things.

These are a few of the many great and Heavenly things that are promised to you, who are new Creatures, or Regenerate Per∣sons. I know that I have mentioned several of them before, and there promised to speak more fully of them, on this head.

6. You are the great objects of Gods love, delight and complacency. Your union with Christ, Rela∣tion to him, and the Divine nature on you, makes you most beautiful, aimable, and lovely in the sight of God; and he loves you with an exceeding great, singular and special love. It is his own loveliness that makes you lovely in his eies. You have none at all of your own, to commend you to his love and acceptance. God saith of, and to you, I have loved you with an everlasting love; Jer. 13.3. And therefore with loveing kindness have I drawn thee; namely, to accept of my Son, and become new Creatures. And in Eph. 2.4. The Apostle tells us, that God loves his quickned or Regenerate

Creatures, with a great love, and tells us, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Eph. 3.18, 19. That there are Heights, Depth•• Lengths, and Breadths, in the love of Christ t•• them; yea, that it is so great, as that it passe•• all understanding; not of Christs understanding 〈◊〉〈◊〉 but ours and Angels. When God would ex∣press his love to Regenerate men, in the mo•• Emphatical way that we are capable of con∣ceiving, or apprehending it, he words it 〈◊〉〈◊〉 indiffinite Termes. As God so loved the World (namely, the little World of new Creatures) God so loved them, Joh. 3.16. That is, he greatly, unexpressibly, and unconceivably, loved and loves them. The Apostle John ex∣presses it thus, 1 Joh. 3.1. Behold what manner of Love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 should be called the Children of God? Behold, what manner of love is this. I cannot conceive, much less express how great and admirable his love is to his children. God onely knows how much he loves them, but they do not know it, no, nor yet can they tell how much they do love God. For love between them and God, and God and them, is unmeasurable, innumerable, unsearchable, and past finding out. Their love to Christ is as strong as Death that many waters cannot quench; Cant. 8.6.7. O! then how great is his love to them. New creatures are sick of love to Christ, it is so fervent, strong, and working, Cant. 5.8. How much more strong and fervent is Christs love to them. 'Tis true, that Christ is a far more lovely and de∣sirable object of, and for their love and delight, than themselves are for Christs, for he is the

fairest of Ten thousands, and altogether lovely, ••••t. 5.10. ult. But then they have not so ••uch love for Christ in their hearts, as he ••••th for them. The Lord Jesus looks on his ••••w Creatures, his Spouses; like a true and ••••hement Lover indeed. Like one that is ena∣••ored and ravished with them: hence we have ••••••en such expressions falling and droping ••••om his pure Lips. How faire and how pleasant ••••t thou, O Love for delights? Cant. 7.6. And ••••ou hast ravished my heart, my Sister, my Spouse: ••••••u hast ravished my heart with own of thine eies, ••ith one chaine of thy Neck, Cant. 4.9. By all which expressions of his, he commends and sets out his exceeding great love to his peo∣ple. Oh! what a rich and invaluable privi∣ledge is this, to be so much, and lye so deep i•• the love and affections of the great God, and the Lord Jesus Christ. He loved you be∣fore your Regeneration, so as to make you truely lovely, with his Grace and Spirit, with his Righteousness and holyness. But now he loves you as most lovely and dilightful per∣sons indeed. He loves you now with the love of delight, joy and complacency, as was shew∣ed. You are his delight, and Crown of rejoy∣cing; your Countenance is comely, and your voice sweet to him, Cant. 2.14. His Love to you is true and hearty, strong and fervent, fruitful and profitable, and it is everlasting and un∣changable: he loves you, notwithstanding your many unlovely carriages towards him, and with all your personal deformities: he taketh pleasure in you, and refreshes (as it were)

himself with you; he cannot endure to see you slight and forget him, or to suffer your minds and affections to depart from him; he delights in you, and in his love to, or loving of you; and the like he doth in your love to, or loving of him. The more you love him, the more be sure, he will unbosome himself, and open unto you the hidden Treasures of his love, Prov. 8.21. For his great love to you, causes him to desire, and call for love from you.

Seventhly. You have the priviledge and great dignity of Adoption. You were Ʋagabous and Miserable Beggars, cast out to the loathing of your Persons. None pitied you, or took you in, none hearkned to you, nor cared for you, nei∣ther had you any hand stretched out to help you, until you came to the Lords door. But there you found compassion and mercy, there you found provision ready for you. You knockt but once there, before the the Lord of Glory came himself and opened the door to you, and invited you into his house. He hastned to bring the Fatted Calf, and called for his best Robes, took off your filthy Rags, and put o•• his own Garments of Grace, Righteousness and holyness on you: then he writ his own name on you, and Stampt divine nature upon you, and made you beautiful and desirable. He gave you a new name when he made you new Crea∣tures, which is your honour and glory, and the he said of, and unto you, These shall be my sons and daughters, 2 Cor. 6. ult. And hence forth he accounts and calls them so. These

are my Sons and my Daughters, which I have formed for my self and taken into my house and family; Ezek. 16.20. Isa. 43.21. For they are my first born. They were born for and un∣to me, as in that of Ezekiel, I have appointed, and ordained them to live in my house as my Sons and Daughters, and they shall go no more out, or returne to their former estate again. For they must abide with me for ever: For the Son (though not the Servant) abideth for ever, in his Fathers house or family, as the Son of such a Father, Joh. 8.35. I have (says God) put in their names, their new names, for, and intituled them unto an Eternal Inheritance, Coll. 1.12. Heb. 9.15. Eph. 1.11.14. 1 Pet. 1.4. I have made them my heirs, yea, joynt heirs with my Christ, whom I have given to be the heir of all things, Heb. 1.2. Rom. 8.17. These shall in due time be put into the possession of their Inheritance, for it is reserved in heaven for them, and I will keep them for it, 1 Pet. 1.4.5. and in the mean time, they have and shall keep in their hands (their hearts) the Earnest and first fruits of it, namely, the holy Spirit of Promise. He is the Spirit of adoption to and in them, Rom. 8.14.15. Gal. 4.5. by, and as working and fitting them for it, and the meetening them to live as Children in their heavenly Fathers house, and to demean them∣selves there as they ought to do. So likewise to Seal up and confirm their Inheritance to them, and bear witness to the reallity and Truth of it, namely, that there is such an In∣heritance reserved for them, and that they are appointed for, and chosen to it: and also to

the Truth and faithfulness of God who hath promised it, Rom. 8.16. Eph. 1.13.14. In their Scriptures, he is called a witnesser and a Sealer: Now to what doth he Seal and witness? but to the hearts and faith of the adopted, that there is such an Inheritance entailed on them that they shall possess and enjoy it, and to th•••• faithfulness, Truth, and Alsufficiency of God, who hath promised it, and must do it for them, Besides this, there is another priviledge in you adoption, which is your boldness and Intimacy with your God and Father, notwithstanding the Infinite distance that there is between you and him: which you have mentioned in Gal. 4.6. And because ye are Sons, God hath sent fo•••• the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, Crying, Ab•••• Father. And in Rom. 8.15. but ye have received 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Spirit of Adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. That is, we may now, in and by your Adoption and the Spirit thereof in our hearts, conve•••• familiarly, Intimately, and boldly with God through Jesus Christ. We may draw near to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in full Assurance of Faith, as commanded, H•• 10.22. And boldly, Heb. 4. ult. And that be∣cause we are adopted Children in our Father house, and can come to, and converse in, wi•••• and by the Spirit of Adoption, with our Go•••• and Father. You shall forever be fed at you•• Fathers, and eat at his Table with him, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he will make all sorts of Spiritual provisi•••• for you, because you are his adopted Ch••••∣dren, and in his house. You shall for ever 〈◊〉〈◊〉 upon no worser fare, than the Bread of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that came down from heaven, Joh. 6. And y••••

••••all for ever Drink of the Rivers of his pleasures, ••••ely, of the Fountain of Life, Psal. 36.8. and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 shall never want. You are in an adopted ••••••e, and may expect all provisions from him 〈◊〉〈◊〉 hath Adopted you, for he will not deny you any good thing, nor fail to make ready for 〈◊〉〈◊〉 your daily bread. Therefore look on 〈◊〉〈◊〉 great dignity and Priviledge of yours, apply it to your selves, suck out all the mar∣••ow and sweetness of it, and comfort your selves with it, to the enabling and encoura∣ging you in your Wilderness Journy, work a••d condition. You know it so amongst men ••••th respect to worldly Inheritances. Such as are entayled or entitled to them, will often think on them, and comforting themselves in ••ope of possessing and enjoying the good of ••••em after a few years. Why, do you so, ••uch more. For your Inheritance, to which you are Adopted, is a much more glorious, certain, and rich Inheritance than any world∣ly one can be, and it is an Incorruptible and ••ternal Inheritance, that you are entituled to. The Lord Jesus, the Elder Brother and Heir, is gone to take possession of your Inheritances for you, who are Regenerated, and made by Adoption fellow Heirs of Salvation.

8. Ʋnion and Communion. You are Ʋnited to Christ, and made one Body with him, or you are Members of his Body, of his Flesh, and of his ••••es, Eph. 5.30. as you heard before, and therefore shall not insist on it here. This Union is exprest, and set forth unto us, by many things. As by natural Ʋnions that are

between the Head and Members in the Natural Body, Eph. 5.23. Eph. 1.22, 23. Eph. 4.15. by the natural union and oneness that is be∣tween the Vine and Branches, Joh. 15.1, 2, 4, 5. so also between Voluntary and Conjugal Relati∣ons, as Husband and Wife, Eph. 5. Friends and Friends, John 15. Now from this Union flows Communion of Persons and Estates. What the Lord Jesus hath is theirs, and whatever they have is Christs. Christ is theirs, and all his fulness and Riches theirs; he can withhold 〈◊〉〈◊〉 good thing from them, neither doth he ac∣count any thing he hath, to be so his own, but that they have a kind of propriety and Interest in it, and may claim it of him. What he hath received of his Father, it was for them; he de∣posited all their stock and Portion in his hand, that he might impart and communicate it 〈◊〉〈◊〉 them, which he doth, and will do, and th•••• most faithfully, carefully, wisely, and season∣bly. For this end he gives them free and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 access to him, and invites them not to be stra••∣gers to him, but come and apply themselve•• freely and constantly to him, and ask of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 what they will, John 14.13, 14. John 15.••. John 16. All which he holds forth to the•• in and by the hand of Promises. Ask what y•• will, and it shall be done to you, John 15.7. Jo•••• 16.24. In like manner, Regenerate Men 〈◊〉〈◊〉 open hearted to Christ (in degree) they 〈◊〉〈◊〉 willingly design and dedicate their all to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 All their love and affections; all their stren•• and abilities; and all their earnings and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 tings, They give him their service and 〈◊〉〈◊〉

age, their hearts, hands, and Souls, and the fruits of their experiences of his Grace and love to them. Christ and they do Visit one mother in the Galleries, and in their Closets. There they do unbosome themselves, and open the secrets of their hearts to each other; This is another of your great Dignities and Privi∣ledges. But having spoken something of this before, I shall say no more of it here. You should consider this Truth, and make the best of it you can.

9. You are priviledged and dignified with the holy Angels Guard and Attendance. They are by nature more noble and excellent Creatures then you, and yet they wait on you, and keep guard round about you night and day. They love and honour you, and are ready to do you any service they can; and you are greatly en∣gaged to them for the honour and service they do you. They do you much good, for they are Ministering Spirits, sent forth to Minister unto the Heirs of Salvation, such as you are: they secure you from, and guard you against Devils, and they support and uphold you in, and with their hands, Heb. 1. ult. Psal. 91 10, 11. Psal. 34.7. Math. 4. When you are Journying, they go with you, and when you lie down, they watch at your Beds-side. The holy Angels rejoyce in and with you, Luk. 15.7, 10. They are glad at your Regeneration and Salvation, and they no way envy your prosperity, or disdain your service as below them. Whatever they do for you, they do it freely, faithfully, chear∣fully, and with delight. Thus you see what

you are born to, and what Dignities and Pri∣viledges are conferred on you, and do attend your New states and conditions. Apply them to your selves, and lay them near your hearts, lodge them in your minds, and realize them to your selves, for they are yours, and do be∣long to you, as you are New Creatures, or in a state of Grace. Use them as Divine Cordials, and drink freely of them continually, to strengthen and encourage your hearts and hands in the work of the Lord. For it is your Fathers will you should so do, because he knows you need them, and gives them into your hands, for these ends and purposes. And now what follows, but that you endeavour to walk worthy of your new State, Priviledges, and Dignities: Which will be the matter of the next Chapter.

CHAP. VII. Shewing how you ought to walk, and carry your selves in your Regenerate States, and what God looks for, and expects from you.

Q. WHat is the Work? or what are the works and duties of New-Creatures in their Regenerate states? how ought they to walk, and carry themselves towards God and Men? what doth God require of, and expect from them?

A. They have great and special works and duties to do and perform to God and Men, in which they must exercise and imploy them∣selves all their days. They must never be Idle and unfruitful in the knowledge of Christ, or their new States, 2 Pet. 1.8. Regenerate persons must abound in the work of the Lord, 1 Cor. 15. ult. and make it their whole work and business to bring forth fruit to God, Rom. 7.4. that God may be glorified in and by them, John 15.8. God expects singular things, and special works from you, for the whole Revenue of his Glory, is intrust∣ed with, and in your hands, and with other of his New Creatures, and he hath and will give grace and assistance enough to enable you to live to the praise of his glorious Grace; namely, in the practise and perfor∣mance of all the Duties he expects and re∣quires of you: Your whole conversation be∣fore men, and the frame, disposition, and car∣riage

of your hearts before God, must of ne∣cessity be as becomes the Gospel of Christ, Phil. 1.27. All your thoughts, cares, and abilities, must now be exercised in, and laid out about your living to, walking with, and pleasing of God; in walking worthy of your high Cal∣ling, holding up the Honour, Glory, and Re∣putation of your New states and conditions, and in setting off, and commending the excel∣lency of Gods Grace, and your Regeneration to all men, as you have occasion and oppor∣tunity to do. You must manifest and declare in the whole trade and course of your lives, what and who you are; that you are indeed, what, or that which you seem to be in your Profession. You must walk, and carry your selves as new Creatures towards all your Re∣lations, and towards all such as you converse with, and have to do withal. Your special and becoming works and carriages, must shew and demonstrate whose and what you are to men; and your principles, ends, and frames of heart, must declare what your state and condition is unto your own Consciences, 2 Cor. 1.12. John 13.35.

Now in prosecuting this Head, I shall briefly shew you, 1. what your Duties are, or what frames of heart, works, and carriages, God requires of, and expects from you, as his New Creatures. 2. What Enemies and obstructions you will meet with∣all, to hinder you in your so walking. 3. shew you what Bonds and Obligations God hath laid on you, so to walk and carry your selves towards God and Men, as shall be opened and represented unto you briefly.

First then, I shall shew you some of your ••uties, and how you ought to walk in your ••egenerate states; and the first that I shall ••ame, is, Thankfulness. Your whole life should ••e spent in praising and thanking God for ••egenerating and making you new Creatures, and for those other appurtenances or Mer∣cies, that are joyned with, and annexed to your Regeneration. Your happiness, and the love and kindness of God to you in Rege∣nerating you, are so exceeding great, as that Eternity will be too little to thank and bless God for them. Now God hath therefore made you New Creatures, and delivered you from and out your old states, put you under his Grace, and formed you for himself; that you should adore and admire, thank and praise, bless and glo∣rifie his holy Name, and his unspeakable grace to you, Psal. 50.15. Thus was holy David his Trade and Practise, as you may find every where in his Psal. 10.3, 1, 2. Psal. 89, 1. Psal. 104, 1. Thus. he presses on others likewise, Psal. 105.1, 2, 3. Psal. 118, 1, 2. And the Apostle charges us, in every thing to give thanks and praise, 1 Thes. 5.8. and tells us, That this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning us. You must thank God with your hearts; as well as your lips, and with your works and carria∣ges, as well as with your Tongues; all must be exercised in, and employed about this work. You have grace to do it withal, there∣fore you must do it as becomes such. A deep sense of your unregenerate states, and what the evil and misery of them was: Of what you

are delivered from, and called to, in your Re∣generation; as also a deep and working sense of the exceeding riches of Gods Grace, and what he hath laid out, and expended on you, to put you into a state and condition to thank and praise him acceptably, is very necessary for you, to quicken and stir up your, hearts, and open your mouths to this great Work and Duty. God minds, and takes special no∣tice of what you do in this matter, and also how you do it, and what your omissions are, at any time. Hezekiah had received a new life from God, and he neglects to praise and thank him; he did it not as he might, and was bound to have done it. This God takes no∣tice of, and Records it for our Learning, 2 Chron. 32.24, 25. Christ healed ten Lepers, and takes notice but of one of them that retur∣ned thanks and praise to God, Luk. 17.17, 18.

Secondly, Make your Regeneration sure to your selves. This is your duty, and a part of your new work: this you must, and this you may do. God would have you to live in assurance, and walk in full assurance of Faith; and therefore he hath made it your duty, that you must do, and your Priviledge, which you may obtain and enjoy. Examin your selves (therefore) whe∣ther you are in the Faith, and under Regeneration or no, 2 Cor. 13.5. And give diligence to make your Calling and Election sure, 2 Pet. 1.10. Other men do not this work, neither (indeed) can they do it; for they want materials to do it aright and to purpose. But it must be one of your works and businesses to get and keep

Assurance of your new States; for is is your work and duty, and you will stand in daily need of it, to encourage, strengthen, and quick∣en; to and in other duties, and comfortable walking with God, as you ought to do, God will Seal and confirm his own work in you, if he find you dutifully and diligently endea∣vouring after it. For he hath so Sealed and confirmed others, Eph. 1.14. Eph. 4.30. And he hath promised to do it for you, Hosea. 6.3. Pro. 2.1.—7.

If you live in doubt, and walk in darkness in this matter; Know that it is ordinarily your own faults, which you may and must amend. It is because you are negligent & care∣less, and do not all you may to get and keep assurance. It is because you slight and under∣value it, and grieve the holy Spirit, who is ap∣pointed to be your Regenerator and Sealer, Eph. 4.29.30. He doth not, will not help you to Assurance, because he sees you negligent to help your selves to it. Therefore do your duty and make use of his meanes, by which he will do it for you; and without which he will not, but leave you in the Wilderness of doubts, darkness, fears, and heart-wounding distractions and perplexities.

3. Fix and resolve on a Trade of Godlyness, and universal respect and obedience unto the whole will of God, and your duty. Mould and form, set up and intend in your Judgments, hearts and consciences, a course, way, and trade of holi∣ness and walking with God, in conformity to his will as such. Take heed, beware of delusi∣ons

in your progress. You will be tempted and inveagled to take up with Parts and Pieces of your work and duty, and to be partial in the Laws of God accounting some duties indispensible and great, and others little and dispensible; and so of Sins too. You will be tempted to look on this Sin as great, and therefore you must avoid it, (that's well) but you will be tempted to look on other Sins as little and next to none; and then dispence with the commission of them, or not be so careful and diligent, as you might and ought to be, to avoid and reject them. Regenerate men are too to often deluded and ensnared by these and such like temptations, and fancies about Sin and duty, which proves very destructive to their peace, and communion with God, and exceedingly obstructive to their trading in Godlyness, and universal o∣bedience, as many can sadly experience.

Therefore I advise you, yea, the great God advises and exhorts you, to get the whole Trade and course; the whole matter and way of Godliness, all your works and duties, moulded and framed in you: and take up fixed, peremptory, and unchangable purposes and resolutions, notwithstanding temptations to the contrary, to take up with, and really to practice all your duties, and the whole will of God, that is or shall be made known to you. Thus did David, Psal. 119.30. I have chosen the way of Truth: thy judgments have I laid before me. And I will never forget thy precepts. Vers. 93. And again says he, I have sworn, and

I will performe it, that I will keep thy righteous Judgments, Vers. 106. Paul and other Saints did so, and it proved very advantagious to them. They had their Trade and work of Godlyness fixed, formed, and setled in their Judgments, Mindes, Wills, and Consciences. They knew, or did endeavour to know the whole service of their work and business, and as they grew into Acquaintance with it, so they took it into their hearts and consciences; and there it became a stated and a vowed inte∣rest of theirs; which produced (as a meanes) their so willing, ready, steady, and constant practice of Godlyness, and frequent Trade, Phil. 3.20. do you so too, and you will find the like effects.

Fourthly. Take up in Christ. Live, walk, and Trade in Godliness, in, from, and by him. He is the Authour of your new states and be∣ings, workes and duties, from him you must still have fresh supplies. The new Creature is but a Cistern without him, it is he that can and must fill your Treasures, Pro. 8.21. He it was who begot you to a lively hope, and set you in your new states, 1 Pet. 1.3.4. by the vertue and influence of his Life, Heb. 12.2. and it is he who must and will nourish, and cause to grow that which he hath begotten, Hosea. 14.8. That which I call here a taking up in, and living on Christ, is the same (as I judge) which the Lord Jesus calls abiding in him, Joh. 15.4.5.6. Abide in me and I in you: as the branch cannot bear fruit of its self, except it abide in the Vine, no more can ye except ye abide in me. I am

the Vine, yee are the branches: he that abideth i•• me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit. For without me ye can do nothing. This is your exceeding great priviledge and happiness that you may, and your indispensible duty, that you must, abide in Christ. That is, that you may and must take up in, live upon, derive all supplies of Grace from him, as from your Root and Fountain. In him are all your springs and he is the onely fountain of Light, Life, Strength, Faith, Hope, Peace, Joy, and Con∣solation. Remember what you heard before, namely, that he is the Keeper, and great Lord Treasurer of all your stock, portion, and sup∣plies. God the Father sent and committed all into his hands for you; and therefore be sure that you live on, in and upon him for all good. It is appointed you should do so. God hath commanded you so to do, and therefore it is your duty: in and by this way and duty, you shall obtain your portion and all supplies of Grace to enable you to discharge your du∣ties, and perform your workes, and so it is your priviledge and happiness. It is your priviledg and happiness to have such a stock and portion laid up and secured in his hands, and that you may live in and upon him, and have free access to him for it. This is a duty thou owest to God and Jesus Christ, yea, 'tis a duty thou owest thine own Soul. By the wise, serious, and constant practice of this duty, thou wilt greatly enrich thy self with all Grace and heavenly supplies. Thou shalt be furnished thereby to every good work,

and made a fruitfull branch in thy Generati∣••••. In Christ lay all thy Treasures, and from 〈◊〉〈◊〉 is thy fruit found, Col. 2.3. Hosea. 14.8. Do thy duty, and he will supply all thy wants, make thee wise unto salvation, and a fat and ••ourishing Member in the house of God. Thou maist freely and securely trust him with thy all, for thy God and Father, who loves thee better than thou lovest thy self, hath done so for thee, Math. 11.27. Joh. 3.35. Col. 1.19. Col. 3.9. And thou that art a Regenerate Person, maist ask what thou wilt of him, and he will do it for thee; and that because he loves thee; is thy Trustee, and hath thy stock and portion.

Fifthly. Give God thy all. Let him have thy all dedicated to him, and laid out in his ser∣vice and worke every day. For thy all, is all his, and he expects of thee no less then thy all. Whatever Talents thou hast, he lent them thee, and made thee his Steward to use and employ them for him, in his worke and service. God is the first cause, and last end of all thy enjoy∣ments: he had himself in his eye, and design, when he gave, or lent them to thee, as the great end, end he requires and expects to have the fruit of all thy Receivings. It is true that he allows thee a share in them; the Comfort of them is thine, but the honour and Glory of them is his. That is his part and portion, the other is thine. And therefore as thou hast thy part and portion in, and out of them, so be sure God have his also, and that in the first place. Let him not be put off with a part of your Receivings, for he will have all or none.

Whether he hath given, or lent thee much or little Grace, or any other good things, be sure when thou dost any service to or for him, to lay out and expend thy all in it, as much as possible: for then thy little all shall be ex∣cepted, and he will account thee a faithful ser∣vant, and himself respected and glorified by thee, not else, whatever pretences thou maist make, by way of excuse? As you must not take up with a part of your work and duty, and let the rest alone, (as was shewed) so you that are new Creatures must not think to put God off with a part of your abilities and Re∣ceivings in his service, for that is to deal deceitfully with him, and rob him of his due. He will have all or none. God requires thee to honour him with thy substance, and with the first fruits of all thine encrease, Pro. 3.9. that is, with thy all. And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy Soul, and with all thy minde, Math. 22.37. That is, thou shalt not faile to serve thy God with thy all. Thus Da∣vid did Psal. 119.10. With my whole heart have I sought thee. And in Psal. 103.1.2. Bless the Lord, O my Soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name. For doing this, the poor Widow was much commended, namely, for casting into the Treasury, her all, Mark. 12.41.—ult. Her mites was her offering to God, the matter was small indeed, not worth the minding a∣mong men. I but it was her all, and so it was of great account with Christ. The question is not about the quantity, whether the offering be much or little, but whether it be thy all or

no. We are often tempted to put off God with part of our all, and with pretence for our so doing. But let us take heed and beware of this grosse and horrible Hipocrisy, for God will not long winck at it. When we have been tempted to do so, then we are put upon stu∣dying and makeing excuses when we have Napkind up our Talents, and not brought them forth, then we had them not; and when we have laid aside our strength, or not stir'd it up to practice, then alass we are poor weak Crea∣tures, then we complain of wants and weak∣nesses, when in truth it is our wickedness and carelesness. But take heed and beware of this Temptation and deceit.

Sixthly. You must be singular and peculiar in all things, and in all your wayes, towards God and men. There should, yea, there must be as great a difference between you and unregenerate men, as between light and darkness, good and evil. For you are a holy people unto God, Chil∣dren of light, and a Special and a peculiar people indeed, Deut. 7.6. Eph. 5.8. Tit. 2.14. You are of a divine make, and of a heavenly descent, and are born to and for higher and more noble Acts, Works and Employments, and to more excel∣lent frames & carriages than others are. There∣fore you must exceed and go beyond others, in all manner of holy conversations and godliness: that thereby you may declare, and hold forth your distinguishing Characters, and manifest what Grace can do, beyond nature. I shall for brevity sake give you but hints of several things, that you should be singular in. In the

general, you must be singular in all those works, frames of heart, carriages, duties, and deport∣ments, which are yours, or in an especial man∣ner required of you, as new creatures, and which other men are unacquainted withall.

1. As First, The excercise of all Graces in ex∣ternal duties. In all the worship and ordinances of God, and in all religious matters, you must call up, bring forth, and exercise all the Graces of the Spirit. There must not one hooff be left behind of your Graces when you worship God, but all must be employed in it. Your faith, Love, knowledge, zeal, hope, patience, &c. whatever is entrusted in your hands to worke and worship God withall, must concur and work together in the doing of it.

2. Self-denial. This is alwaies necessary in all your walkings with God. For one accursed Self or other will alwaies be interposing, op∣posing and intercepting of you, to hinder and obstruct you, or to mar and utterly spoil your duties and performances. You are called off from serving and gratifying self, to the serving and pleasing of God, and you are called to the constant work of Self-denial; and therefore you must do it.

Againe; you must be singular in Watching and guarding, in keeping and defending your selves against all your spiritual Enemies within and without, and you must keep on, and make continual use of your Spiritual Armour, and fight down all such Adversaries as raise up against you, Eph. 6.11-18. 1 Tim. 6.12 These are some of the many workes and duties that you must be

continually exercised about and employed in; 〈◊〉〈◊〉 which you shall find true peace and comfort.

Secondly. You must expect many assaults and ••••••ng attempts upon you, from all the Enemies of your Souls. The Devil, world and Lusts, will conti∣nually endeavour to tempt, draw, and ensnare you to, and in all evil. They will not let you ••one, but be alwayes watching you, and im∣proveing all their opportunities against you ••ight and day, in all places and businesses, to ••••tice and perswade you to sin against God and men; to cause you to rob God, wrong your own Souls, and injure men; and they are Sub∣tle and potent. But I may not enlarge at pre∣sent. And therefore shall only mention some of the many obligations God hath laid on, and encouragements he hath given you, to walk with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 unto all well pleasing in your new states. Re∣member what God hath made you, what ex∣cellent pieces of his Work-manship you are, and what expences the Lord Jesus hath been at and hid out to make you a peculiar people unto himself. He will never leave you nor forsake you, but water you every moment, keep you night and day, sup∣ply all your wants, keep you by his mighty power, and guide you by his Counsels until he shall receive you unto his glory, Heb. 13.5. Phill. 4.19. Isa. 27.3. 1 Pet. 1.5. Psal. 73.24. The holy Ghost shall a∣bide with you for ever, Joh. 14.16. impart to, and convey into your Souls all the fullness of Christ; Joh. 16.13.14.15. and whatever Christ hath is yours. His Joy, Peace, Life, Light, Strength, Love and Glory is your, 1 Cor. 3. and you may go to, and have free access to him for all that is his.

FINIS.