Practical discourses on sundry texts of Scripture wherein is shewed and made known the absolute necessity for all people to turn immediately unto the Lord their God / by Richard Stafford ...

CHAP. II. Here that Proposition is at Large discussed, That People are not forced and compelled to the Obedience of God, but they are left herein to their own free Choice or Refusal.

FOR the first, Cannot they imagine, That if it was the Mind of God, that any should be compelled to his Service, could not he have brought the whole World unto his Obedience before this Time, when they have continued for some Thousands of Years in their Iniquity and Transgression? He, who fashioneth their Hearts alike, Psal. 33. 15. and knoweth our Frame, Psal. 103. 14. could also have put into us the same instant Necessity and Inclination to his Worship and Service, as to our Meat and Drink, that without it we should grow faint and perish. He could have deter∣mined the Powers of Soul only one Way, as in Brutes, and have moved them towards his Law and Will, as they are carried by Instinct to natural and sensible things; he could have implanted into every one that strong Desire of following the thing that good is, as after Life and Breath; and they should abhor and flee from Evil with the like Care and Earnestness as from Death and Destruction. He could have so hedged up all our Ways, that it were not possible to go from him, if we were never so eagerly bent on Backsliding, no more than

we can now get out of a strong Prison. He might have so compassed us in of every Side, that we could not avoid fulfilling his Com∣mand, no more than any one doth now escape from under a Guard. Neither can we hide from him who is every where and in all Pla∣ces. He might give us as sensible Evidence of his taking Knowledge of all our Ways, as a King doth of any Treason committed in his Presence, for which we should incur his severe Wrath immediately. Verily thou art art a God that hidest thy self, O God of Israel, the Saviour, Isa. 45. 15. and so hast done ever since the World began, to see what the Children of Men will do. God hath discovered himself no more than what was necessary for to exercise our Faith and Trial. He hath just made known his Name and Power amongst Men; but fur∣ther, it is left unto them how they will carry themselves towards the Lord, their Strength and Redeemer.

It is a wonderful thing to consider, how the God who made and filleth, and is all things, should yet be so little manifested unto Men! That he who is all Brightness and Glory, should not be seen among us. That he who made and fashioned us, in whom we live and move and have our Being, should not be perceived by us: That when he filleth Heaven and Earth with his Presence, yet any should live without God in the World. Surely Darkness hath covered the Earth, and gross Darkness the People. The Sun

gives Light upon it by Day, and the Moon by Night, and yet there is a greater Darkness round about which the dull Element perceives not, there is yet a worse and greater Obscurity in those who see and walk therein. Strange! that it should not be yet universally fulfilled in all People. At that Day shall a Man look to his Maker, and his Eyes shall have Respect unto the holy One of Israel, Isa. 17. 7. for he might see him with the Eyes of his Ʋnderstanding being en∣lightened, all one as he doth with his bodily Eye, see the Works of God, and the Earth which we tread on. By the Air which a Man breaths and moves in, he might have a Sense and Resemblance of him who is invisible; who doth also beset him behind and before, and is with him in his going out and coming in, and is acquainted with all his Ways. There is no going from his Spirit and Presence. If I as∣cend up into Heaven, thou art there: If I make my Bed in Hell, behold, thou art there: If I take the Wings of the Morning, and dwell in the utter∣most Parts of the Sea, even there shall thy Hand lead me, and thy Right Hand shall hold me, Psal. 139. 8, 9, 10. And so he doth equally in the narrow Places of our Abode. Whether we be on a Journey, or a walking in our Chamber, or in the lower Parts of our House, whether we be alone or in Company, God is all along present with us, but through Imperfection the Soul is not well intent on several things together, and his Creatures too often make us forget the

Creator. As we behold them, we are unmind∣ful of him that is invisible; their Talk and Discourse too often make us not think of his Word and Law. Nevertheless, these Fail∣ings might be rectified, and we might have a continual Sense of him and of his Command∣ments, that we might not fall nor offend. But here it is to be admired, that when there are so many things to bring to the knowledge and Remembrance of our God, yet Mankind for several Generations, should be so sottishly ignorant and unmindful of him. Every thing we see, taste, and handle, is his Work and Creature, which should renew the Sense of the Creator; yet all these are made an Occasion to forget him, the least conceiving or inward reasoning would instantly have led up to the Apprehension of him. That it must be some one who made all these things; for even as to the Houses which we inhabit, we must con∣clude that some one did build them, though it was before we were born: And so this great House of the World must needs have been framed by him who built all things; and he that built all things is God. Through Faith we understand that the Worlds were framed by the Word of God, so that things which are seen, were not made of things which do appear, Heb. 11. 3. The Heavens continue standing as they were from the Days of the Creation, yet that once was, and must needs have been. But then fur∣ther, the very Continuance and upholding of

the things created, doth most plainly demon∣strate this eternal Power and Godhead. For I lift up my Hand to Heaven and say, I live for ever, Deut. 32. 40. This may be clearly seen, for the vast Roof of the Sky is kept up without any mighty Beams or Pillars. He stretcheth forth the North over the empty Place, and hang∣eth the Earth upon nothing; but then it abides only by his Support. He upholds all things by the Word of his Power. He forms and gives Life and Breath to the several things therein. They are born, move a little between, and then they die one after another. Hereby, giving us to signifie that himself alone is eter∣nal and immortal, without Beginning or any Ending. They increase, fade, and decay, which is a manifest Token of Difference from his own infinite Perfection, Fullness, and Unchangea∣bleness. They are divided and separated from one another, which again distinguishes from him who is all in all, whose Spirit filleth the World. They are very little and small, which is another Diversity from his infinite Great∣ness. They are contemptible and weak, where∣fore to him alone belongs all Honour, Glory, Power and Strength: He hath shewed himself to be the Lord and a jealous God, by the very Frame of things, which have been as it were of set Purpose so contrived, that they should not draw off the least Glory, Excellency, and Admiration from the great Creator and su∣preme Majesty of Heaven and Earth.

How all these have been abused and stifled by the most detestable Ignorance and Folly, by the utmost Malice and Perverseness of Man∣kind, and by the manifold Devices of Satan, and by sundry other Ways, will be one Day particularly disclosed, when all things shall be reckoned up in order as they have been done and transacted in this Earth. Things have been turned and perverted just contrary to what they were first intended. O strange Sot∣tishness and Blindness! O wicked Folly! There is a Rehearsal of it throughout the Thirty Se∣cond Chapter of Deuteronomy; and the Reason of all may be somewhat understood from the Twentieth Verse, And he said I will hide my Face from them, I will see what their End shall be, for they are a very froward Generation, Children in whom is no Faith. If God did not hide him∣self, or if they had but Faith still to apprehend him, it is impossible that Mankind should be so unmindful or negligent of the things pertain∣ing to him.

For they who are thankful for common Mercies and daily Benefits, and catch at eve∣ry little thing; if these did clearly apprehend how all things are God's, and themselves have from him whatever they enjoy, they would also give the same continual Thanks unto him, and having this Earnest and Pledge, they would seek diligently after the great things of God. Who admire at every little Novelty, they would much more be astonished at the

Wonders of his Majesty. Who are so careful to please their Superiours according to the Flesh, least they should receive Injury or Op∣pression; and also they are sincere and loving towards them, if they receive Good and Bene∣fits from them; these same People would be alike obedient and fearful to displease the Lord their Maker, unto whom the Inhabitants of the Earth are but as Grashoppers, or a Compa∣pany of creeping Worms. If we were made alike throughly sensible that as God doth good, so he can punish more than one Man doth to another, there would be the like Reverence and Awe unto him. It is certain that he doth give us already whatever we enjoy, and is not that which we have constantly; even from our Youth up, more than those little Additions of Kindness we have now and then from another, and consequently such do require greater Gra∣titude and Love. And then what he is further pleased to promise, doth not that infinitely ex∣whatever can be thought of, or named, or ceed had here: May we not wisely and with Ad∣vantage renounce what now might be had, if it doth hinder from the Hope and Expectation of that, as that same Word (which makes known the great Salvation, and the Means how to obtain it) doth expresly declare. One might run over many Particulars which would manifestly shew, That if the things of God were really believed and considered of, there would be the same, yea, more earnest Care

and Labour after them, than after the things of this Earth. And we should perform our Duty to him in all things which he requires of us, as we give Honour and do Offices one to another.

But this hidden Mystery of the Kingdom of God, and of the Divine Dispensation, hath puzzled the Understandings and Actings of Men. Indeed Man hath a confused apprehen∣sion of things, but he knows little distinctly, and acts yet worse towards his Maker. Either he doth not know, or not believe, or he is in∣constant, and imperfect as to both. Or when he knows the hindrances, he wilfully gives way, and is kept off by them; and when he sees the Temptations, he doth yield unto them; or an unseen Enemy fills him with imaginati∣ons and excuses, and a deceived heart hath turn∣ed him aside, Isa. 44. 20. We should be exceed∣ing careful about our Understanding, to have it informed with true and right Thoughts. If we may rightly apprehend the Dispensation of God's Kingdom, and the Nature of things before us, which pertain to us. It is called the Mystery of the Kingdom; and therefore we should Pray for the Spirit to search and unfold it, to get it throughly known and revealed. If we may use such a familiar comparison, that as by the like Arts and Policy Men get a tem∣poral Kingdom, Preferment and Riches; so we might endeavour after those things above. Which is done by Knowledge, Industry, and a resolute putting forth. The first instructs in

the right way, the others set a going and moving forwards. We should first Pray, and seek unto God, That he would lead us forth by the right way, that we may go to the City of Ha∣bitation, Psal. 107. 7. and so in all our Works and Labor in order thereto. And then it may be observed how things are established, and also to be had upon foregoing means. Here it behoves to learn diligently, and to know exactly what are the true and right means; for want of which so many do miscarry in their Designs and Enterprises, as our selves do perceive af∣terwards; which if throughly known before, the thing might have been accomplished. And also we must understand what means are Just, or not, lawful or unlawful; for we are to confine our selves only unto the first, and avoid the other. For I the Lord love Judgment, I hate Robbery for Burnt-offering, and I will direct their work in Truth, Isa. 61. 8. His work is perfect, for all his ways are Judgment; a God of Truth, and without Iniquity; just and right is he, Deut. 32. 4. And therefore we are to refrain from all manner of sin, nor to use any indirect Art or Guile: But if any such is offered or sug∣gested, it is to be looked upon as a Tempta∣tion of Satan, to hinder or delay the Work, and to make us part with our Integrity. There is near the same Connexion and Establishment of all things throughout the whole Creation; and as we see the good things of the Earth are had by Wisdom, honest Labour and Diligence.

So we are to have Grace and Knowledge that we may obtain the heavenly good things, and so seek diligently after them. The Kingdom of Heaven suffereth Violence, and the violent take it by force. Only he who now letteth, will let, untill he be taken out of the Way, 2 Thess. 2. 7. And as he hinders all that he can, so we should watchfully observe his Devices in order to fru∣strate and defeat them. When we have fully heard what promotes and helps us forward to eternal Happiness; this we are to do with all our Might and Power, and also we should decline what hinders, or resolutely work con∣trary to that: Even from the Resistances of Sa∣tan, we may get Strength and advance further. It may be so over-ruled and ordered, that the Light which he would seek to put out, may shine yet more abroad; that the Truth which he would stifle or wrap up may be yet more displayed; that all his Devices may fall back upon himself, and he may lose by what he thought would promote his Kingdom. So they shall make their own Tongue to fall upon themselves, all that see them shall flee away, Psal. 64. 8. for it would be a strange and marvellous thing, that if People were fully sensible that such an in visi∣ble Enemy (who acts by visible Instruments) would deprive and hinder them of so much good, and deceive into Evil and Misery, and yet they should give way unto him. Is there an Instance of this to be found in common Life? That Men should hate their Friends and love

their Enemies; especially when the last appear barefaced as such. Indeed when there is Dis∣guise, Flattery, and concealing, it may be af∣ter that Manner, but it cannot so be when they openly design nothing but Death and Destru∣ction, and to defeat them of such an exceeding Good and Reward. And yet such are all the Methods of Satan, of whatever Nature and Kind they be; whether direct Opposition or keeping back, whether it be by way of Ex∣cuse or Imagination, as indeed all Excuses might at first be suspected by Christian Know∣ledge and discerning; because we are fore∣warned in the Word of God, that they keep off from coming unto him, and into the Way of his Commandments. Those invited to the great Supper, did all, with one Consent, begin to make Excuse, Luke 14. 18. Now it is plain and obvious, and understood by any one that where People shift, and would excuse themselves, there is an Unwillingness. But the Phrase of the obedient Servant is, I will run the Way of thy Commandments, Psal. 114. 32. which de∣notes Readiness and Speed in the same.

The several Actions and Passages of our Life do either lead towards Heaven, they are a standing still, or a going backwards. They either increase our Reward, or they do no∣thing towards it, or they render us liable to Punishment. Now the standing still and doing nothing, sinks down to the place of unprofi∣table Servants; for it is contrary to the Will

of our Master, who would have us to be tra∣ding to his use. He seems to be gone afar off, that he may require an Account, though even now he standeth at the door, and is near to every one of us. He hath withdrawn himself out of our sight, and yet he beholds what we do, though we do not so much regard him; because we see him not. In all things pertain∣ing to God it is left to us whether we will freely and willingly do the same, or leave them undone.

The Law given us was ordered to be writ∣ten in a Book; and now it may be seen whe∣ther Men will take notice, and do thereafter. As for that Law engraven in the Heart, it may be either stifled through Sloth or Negli∣gence, or it may be cherished and furthered by giving heed thereunto, and acting accord∣ingly, and seeking further into it. God might have put into Man as strong an inclination to Read in his Book, as he hath a Natural Desire to behold the Light of the Sun, and the same constant steadiness to observe the Words of his Law, as to Eat, Drink, and Sleep, and ob∣serve the common Rules and Measures of Life. He might have given such a lively Sense of his Promises and Threatnings, as any King now doth of his Rewards and Punishments; so that all People should have been equally, yea infi∣nitely more concerned to have the one and eschew the other. He might have so inculcated and enforced his Commands, that they should

be had in continual remembrance; and there should have been the like constant Care and Caution to keep them, as to preserve our selves in Health, and as we avoid bodily. Hurt or Sickness. The like watchfulness might have been in all, as is now in some peculiar People. Even the Multitude and Generality might be led with the same bent and inclination, to live always according to his Statutes, as now they have to follow their own ways. His Laws are set before us by his Servants the Prophets, Dan. 9. 10. And in the phrase of another, who spake by the same Divine Spirit, Whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear, Ezek. 2. 5. which denotes liberty and freedom of Obedi∣ence or Refusal. As God did formerly suffer all Nations to walk in their own ways, so now having made known his Mind and Will, they are further proved whether they will receive the knowledge of it, and do thereafter. He hath discovered himself so far to the World by what is already revealed and made known, that they should seek after him yet further. His Truth is thus far manifest to the generality of Mankind, that they also should learn and en∣quire after it. That the residue of Men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles upon whom my Name is called, saith the Lord, who doth all these things, Acts 15. 17. Still there must be some act and endeavour in Man. There must be both a willingness and compliance in him to accept of what God hath done for him. A∣greeable

hereunto is the whole Divine Revela∣tion, and that form of Speech our Saviour makes use of in reference to himself and his Disciples, He that receiveth you receiveth me; and he that receiveth me, receiveth him that sent me, Mat. 10. 40. And he that despiseth you, de∣spiseth me, Luke 10. 10. The one is a willing Act, and the other a wilful Refusal. So his Servant John speaketh unto the World, He which is filthy, let him be filthy still; and he that is Righteous, let him be Righteous still, Rev. 22. 11. Not that it is the Mind of God that any one should continue in his wickedness; for he hath no pleasure in the death of a sinner, but rather that he turn and live. But after former Calls there comes this kind of Speech, That such an one may choose; he may do what he will, for God seems to cast him off; and this makes People the more willing to come, as we have an Example hereof in Judges 10. 13, 14, 15. As on the other hand when things are prof∣fered and seem to be made easie, they con∣temn it, and do keep off.

The whole History of the Church ever since the World began, and also the Method of his Spiritual Dispensation doth plainly shew that all Men are left to their free Liberty and Choice whether they will serve God or not: And if it seem Evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom you will serve; whether the Gods which your Fathers served: but as for me and my House, we will serve the Lord, Joshua

24. 15. If thou dost well, shalt not thou be accept∣ed? and if thou dost not well, sin lieth at the door, Gen. 4. 7.

Truly God is the great King over all the Earth, and he hath Right to Rule over all its Inhabitants. He is the Lord and Governour of the World; and it is meet that he should ex∣ercise Authority, and receive Homage from all things which he hath made: How much more from such a small spot, and little part of his Creation, as the Earth is? Every one who doth in the least consider, must acknowledge God's Dominion most just and due in the general; for our selves assent unto that Honour and Obedience which are given to those several Relations of King, Father and Master: Where∣as those according to the flesh, and our own Fellow-Creatures, are not so much in compa∣rison of the high and lofty One, as a single dust of the Ballance is to the whole Fabrick of the World; or as a drop of a Bucket to the Sea, or as a single Grashopper is to all the Crea∣tures that have Life and Breath: So there should not be the least grudging at his Supe∣riority and Regining over us. And as our selves like to have things done readily and chearfully, so likewise it is reasonable that God should expect the same of us. Thy People shall be willing in the day of thy Power, Psal. 110. 3. God is the same from all Eternity, and hath at all times the very same Power; for he can do all things, and whatsoever he pleases. But

as it is said in another place, Many a time turned he his Anger away, and did not stir up all his Wrath, Psal. 78. 38. So likewise he hath not yet in this Earth, nor doth now exert all his Power and Might. Indeed sometimes he doth make a little more then ordinary manifestati∣on thereof, as in those Signs and Wonders which he wrought of Old Time; and then we hear what effect they had; for they did cause an impression upon the Minds of People; and they were for the time Reverent, Submissive, and Obedient towards God. He might have continued the like tokens among them, and have given them a succession of more, which also should have spoken as sensibly unto them as out of the Cloudy Pillar, That it was be∣cause they kept not his Laws which he gave them. These things were done once or twice in the several Generations that passed through here; not to every Generation, but to those in for∣mer time, that they might tell their Children to come, to see if they would be perswaded to keep his Statutes, and observe his Laws by what they heard God visibly did amongst their Forefathers. Those Miracles, were soon over, and did not remain long among them: To prove whether the Remembrance would have the like effect, as when they were present and before the Faces of People. Who were over-aw'd by the sight of such dreadful Things, might still call to mind the same, and perform a free and ready Service. And so as they did look

back, and had heard of the things done here∣tofore; so we now living may likewise reflect on the same. And we who now stand in these latter days on the Earth, may look forward to what may be in our time, and in the Genera∣tions following.

When God shall yet in a more extraordina∣ry manner than since the beginning of the World, or Man was Created on the Earth, Bow the Heavens and come down, declare his Power and Presence in a much more visible and eminent manner than ever of old time; when the Lord God shall dwell amongst us, and Reign before his Ancients Gloriously.

Who would not fear and obey thee, O King of Nations? forasmuch as thou containest all the good and excellency which is any where to be found amongst the best and wisest of the Sons of Men. For thou first gavest unto them what is now loved and honoured in them. And there∣fore more Reverence, and Love, and Thanks∣giving, and good Will belong unto thee, of whom are all things. Thou didst therefore communicate a light and imperfect measure of Good unto the best of Men; lest they should draw off from looking on thee, who art All in all.

When God himself shall come and appear, even the Rebellious also shall submit unto him; for they shall be over-awed with his Majesty and Greatness; and they shall be likewise per∣swaded thereunto by his Goodness and Truth.

The desire of all Nations shall come, and he shall so clearly manifest himself to be indeed what he hath revealed himself, Loving unto every Man; He doth good, and filleth our Souls with Food and Gladness: when this is through∣ly known, then all former Prejudices and A∣versation against him shall vanish, and be ut∣terly done away. In that day shall this Song be Sung by his Elect and peculiar People, This is the Lord whom we have waited for; and others shall be astonished and confounded within themselves, how it came to pass that they should either despise or conceive evil Thoughts against him. They shall bite their Tongues for Indignation, which did utter hard Speeches against his Majesty. The Lord and his Saints shall convince them of their ungodly deeds, Jude 15. and they shall be so vexed within themselves, that they would even of their own accord cut off both their Hands and their Feet which did offend, and were instrumental to commit Ini∣quity, and cast them into the fire. Truly, God is good to Israel, even to such as are of a clean heart, Psal. 73. 1. He shall more plainly de∣monstrate himself to be thus, than that the Sun doth now give Light to the lower World, or that he gives Rain which wets and moistens the Earth. He shall sensibly manifest himself to be agreeable unto our Nature. He is suit∣able unto, and shall most fully satisfie eve∣ry Desire in the Soul of Man. Stretch out your Understanding every way conceive to the

utmost, more than is possible to utter; whate∣ver you want or would have, our God shall be yet more unto us.

This was somewhat discerned before by those who were of a pure Heart. They had a little Taste and foreconception of his Goodness. The more they did search into it, the more they did find and were satisfied therein. But the Generality of Mankind were willingly ig∣norant of this. They did not like to receive God into their Knowledge, nor seek after and understand his Nature and Properties. Thence came to be in them an evil Heart of Forgetful∣ness and Aversation towards him, for they could not be unmindful, nor yet have any Estrangedness, had they known him. How is it possible to forget him who created all things, and is all in all, who filleth Heaven and Earth with his Presence? How can any one refuse the desiring of him who is the chief and only Good: From whom is derived all that is real∣ly profitable and truly sweet unto us? Who even now is kind, and poureth down his Bene∣fits upon us, but hath reserved for us greater and more enduring things. The things pre∣sent do justly require our Praise and Acknow∣ledgment; but the things to come do call for our Obedience and Duty. We should even now speak out of what we have, and do some∣thing for God, in Expectation of what we shall be Partakers. That we should shew forth the utmost Good-will towards him now we are in

the Way, and he hath put us in a Capacity to do it. We may by Faith apprehend, and ful∣ly rest in what he promises, so it is our Wis∣dom, and will be our Advantage to give all Readiness to perform what he doth require of us. Wherefore Beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him without Spot and blameless, 2 Pet. 3. 14. Such Wages and Reward are sufficient to put up∣on doing every Tittle of our Duty, to cleanse our selves that we may be meet Partakers, and when we have done all, we come short; for our Services are in no wise proportionable to the expected Recompence. Not the Thou∣sandth Part thereof could have been thought of and expected, unless God had been pleased to make known and promise it; and still we are to wait what he of his own good Pleasure will do for his Creatures.

There are many Considerations, which also should make us willing in the Day of his Grace and Forbearance, as we shall certainly be in the Day of his Power. If we would now under∣stand what we shall then be sensible of, we should even at this present Time do after the required Manner, for the very same Reasons, as we shall then wish we had done it. What pre∣vails upon his own peculiar People to do such and such things, would do the same as to others, for they also are Men of the same Passions and Inclinations, but these were governed and re∣ctified by the Knowledge and Grace of our

Lord Jesus Christ. Even we should move and press earnestly to the Mark of the high Calling, if we would further receive and attend unto what would quicken us from within. Paul did labour more abundantly than the other Apo∣stles, because of the greater Degree of Grace which was in him, Grace is an active Princi∣ple, and stirs up to be continually doing the Will of God. Yea, there is the like Inclina∣tion towards the same in the Soul, as the Bo∣dy hath after Meat and Drink. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after Righteousness, for they shall be filled, Mat. 5. 6. When there is the same earnest Appetite after all the things of God, expressed by that one Word of Righ∣teousness, as others have after the Increase and full Enjoyment of their Corn and Wine, here is an assured Promise of obtaining and of full Satisfaction.

Now an earnest Desire (unless it be suppres∣sed by Sloth or Negligence) puts upon Action, and using the Means to obtain; for in Desire there is Torment, and we must do something to be freed from that, or else seek to quiet and stupifie it. Again, This same Desire common∣ly points out and shews some future and distant Good, which may be had upon such things to be done before; and also there is a Want in the Soul of the same thing, which is suitable unto her Nature. We were therefore put in an imperfect Condition, that we might ascend up and labour after what is further set before

us. There is such a Sense and Conscious∣ness of this in Mankind, that they do actually endeavour to embetter their present Conditi∣on where there is any Probability and Likeli∣hood, and where they do not, it is through wretched Sloth or dull Ignorance. In this the rational Creatures differ from brute Beasts; for these only live to eat and labour: They just breath and are not sensible of more. Whereas Man acts after, and can conceive things more excellent. Now if there be the like Assurance and Certainty to obtain them as the things before us, then it is a reasonable In∣ference, That there should be a like and great∣er Endeavour, because of their infinitely more Worth and longer Continuance. The great∣est worldly Good doth not satisfie when had, and of this we must be certainly deprived in a short Time; whereas the heavenly good things are proportionable to our utmost Desires, and shall for ever remain. So that, was there but a doubtful Expectation of such great and en∣during things (a Probability that they were, and a Possibility that they were not) yet one might give up, and leave these present things upon the alone Venture (if we may so speak) of those things to come. Whatever doth now pertain to us, and is had by us, doth utterly perish and come to nothing. They are all along passing by, and at length Man dies and is taken away from them. So the things of this World are no Foundation, for it slides

away, and also our selves are decaying. Now if there was no more, how come in those De∣sires after continuing and durable things? When we see every thing passeth away, where∣fore do we even now covet after what remains? When our selves are continually dying, why do we thirst after Immortality? And since we do, Day by Day, haste to that State where we seem to cease to be, what means that earnest Inclination to have a Being for ever? There is a strong Perswasion and assured Confidence that we shall not die, or rather, Thy dead Men shall live, together with my dead Body shall they arise, Isa. 26. 19. But we shall only be re∣moved into another Place, or stand here again in these later Days upon the Earth, when both our selves and this Place also shall be changed into a more glorious and abiding Condition. That very Knowledge and Desire implanted into our Nature, of more than is perceived or can be had here, doth most clearly demonstrate that there are real things to which it doth re∣late. It being so firmly riveted and grafted in, doth plainly shew that it came from the Author of our Nature: Even he who made us, hath so ordained us; who created the Flesh, did al∣so form the Spirit. And as that is established to have a Sense of things sensible, so this hath a Knowledge and Conception of things spiri∣tual. As that tastes and sees the things pre∣sent, so the Soul doth as evidently perceive and apprehend things to come. And this would

equally appear in all People, if they did in like manner put forth the Powers of their Soul to∣wards divine and heavenly things, as the In∣struments and Members of Body are employed about the things of the Earth. Then shall we know if we follow on to know the Lord, Hos. 6. 3. First know somewhat of his infinite and glori∣ous Godhead, and then how he hath created and established things. Also in our selves is im∣planted a Power and Capacity to arrive at the Knowledge of them.

It is superfluous to bring many Arguments to prove the things which are true and real al∣ready; but yet because they are concealed and hidden, by searching they may be found out: when the Evidence of things not seen is brought forth, it makes as if they were seen. So we find in ordinary Cases, that in a matter of Fact done heretofore, or in a distant Place, it is as nothing to us; but when it is declared and told unto us by certain faithful Witnesses, it is in a manner present, and as if we saw it with our Eyes. Thus it is of historical Matters and common things done in the World: So it is likewise of God's wonderful Acts done in for∣mer Generations, the Miracles and Signs wrought by Christ and his Apostles which are conveyed down unto us a•…•…er the same manner, as publick Records, which are either written, or one Generation tells to another. Now the first is the more certain Way, because that re∣mains when the Voice and Sound of the Mouth perishes in the Utterance, and many times is

forgotten. There is the express Order of Al∣mighty God, Isa. 30. 8. that these things be written. Hence his Word is called Scripture, that is, a Writing, and is so noted in a Book, that it may be for the Time to come for ever and ever.

In which is a Declaration of God's Will un∣to Men, what he doth require of them, with a Rehearsal and Promises of what he hath already, and will yet do for them. Our selves know what we intend to do such a Time here∣after, if we have Life, Power, the same Mind and Circumstances continue alike. Now he is the Everliving Almighty God, with whom is no Shadow of turning; who sits above, and hath the Disposal of all Times and Seasons; who governs and hath Power over all things; who knows all the Hearts of all the Sons of Men, the utmost which is or can be: Before whom all things, past, present, and to come, are the same. So what he hath said, shall most certain∣ly be. For the Lord of Hosts hath purposed, and who shall disannul it, Isa. 14. 27. I will work and who shall let it? Isa. 43. 13. However, for a while Satan and his Instruments are suffered to resist and to try what they can to hinder, yet the Work of God cannot be utterly over∣thrown; for notwithstanding all the Malice and Opposition of Men or Devils, it will come to pass at the last. Hath he said, and shall it not come to pass? Yes assuredly; For that that is determined shall be done, Dan. 11. 36. For the Vision is yet, for an appointed Time, but at the End it shall speak and not lie: Though it

tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry, Hab. 2. 3. But in the mean while we are apt to stagger and distrust, because we do not see it fulfilled in our Generations. Whereas we are but of a short Time, and to him a Thousand Years are but as one Day, and he will have a suitable Space for fulfilling his great and glorious Work. For even the lesser things are done gradually and in Succession of Time. In this little Space and short Time, we do not find all things to be so as we are told of; yet nevertheless we are here so much ascertain∣ed of the less, as to build up a sure Trust and Confidence for the greater. And we shall be translated up thither, where it shall be said, As we have heard, so have we seen, Psal. 48. 8. when Faith shall be turned into Vision; the Sub∣stance of things not seen shall be the Remem∣brance how our God did promise and keep them out of Sight. But now he doth perform the same, and they are revealed with open Face. Therefore were they ordered to be fu∣ture and unseen, to prove whether we would give Credence unto his Word: If we would be diligent in the Work of the Lord, expecting a Reward from him in his due Time. But if his great and good things were now present before us, and to be had as those things of this World now are, what snatching and running would there be after them? People would ne∣ver think themselves too diligent and earnest. They would make haste and not delay the Time

to keep God's Commandments. Had they a through and firm Perswasion of what he saith, Every Man shall receive his own Reward accor∣ding to his own Labour, 1 Cor. 3. 8. Each Per∣son would then try who shall most abound in the Work of the Lord. They would lay hold of every Opportunity for well-doing, if they might partake of his Acceptation and Recom∣pence. They would call to mind what they had been heretofore a doing. To what End or to what Good were all the past Actions they had taken under the Sun? What am I at present better for having had or done this? And is there Expectation of any thing more? Will my heretofore serving divers Lusts and Pleasures make me happy now? Wherefore then do they not satisfie at this Moment? Why do they ut∣terly vanish and disappear? How comes it to pass that Day by Day they cease to delight, and are less recreating? Surely, I have been mistaken all along. It is Happiness and Satis∣faction which I desire, and they make a false Shew thereof. It is Peace and Rest which I would endeavour at, and they leave behind Craving and Trouble.

The sinful Profits of this World seem to be somewhat more enduring and real. But let us reflect upon them either Way, as, Soul, eat, drink and be merry. We will get so much and then enjoy our selves according as the Phrase of the World is; or to please our selves with keeping an Abundance as the covetous Mam∣monist

doth. Yet still this is a meer conceit and a Reasonable Creature cannot be filled or satisfied with that, and here Psal. 49. 17, 18. lies express against him, For when he dieth, he shall carry nothing away, his Glory shall not descend after him. Though whilst he lived, he blessed his Soul. All the Service and Labour after Mam∣mon is evidently determined within this short Time; and it stands in no stead at all further. Now an Account shall be demanded what we have done here? What Provision was made against the Time to come? What Foundati∣on was laid in by good Works? Wherefore was all their Labour about perishing and tem∣poral things? And not about the eternal which do remain? Every one is to give account for his Talent and how he improved it to the Glo∣ry of his Master; that he may receive Authori∣ty and Commendation proportionable. It shall be recompensed to every one according to what he hath done. Where was more done, there shall be a greater Reward: so that all the Acti∣ons of a Man tend as much to himself in that State, as what is done in the present Time. The unprofitable Servant is to be bound Hand and Foot, and to be cast into outer Darkness. Every one is called to work in the Vineyard; and if any one doth not come as soon as he is called (as those did in the Parable, Mat. 20.) himself must answer before Almighty God for the Refusal to obey his Commands. And also People do not attend nor rightly consider

how they willingly deprive themselves of so much Wages and Recompense. Seeing that God hath revealed himself to be so bountiful and good a Master, Servants should shew them∣selves accordingly unto him; and as it were, meet him in the Way of Righteousness. They are to strive who should run fastest; who shall perform their Work with a more willing and chearful Mind; and to offer themselves who shall make the first Assault, or do such an Act of Duty; for even thus much is done for our Masters according to the Flesh. Is not God more gracious and better than they? Are not his Benefits as valuable? Ought not his Favour and Good-will to be more esteemed?

But his good things are to come; why, what∣soever we now have and enjoy, did first pro∣ceed from God and is his own. Man hath the Use of some things, but God hath the Propri∣ety of all. But the greater things also will be actually present as those things now before us are; and then these present things shall be ut∣terly done away. So they are upon equal, yea more Advantage than what is now before our Eyes. Tribulation, Anguish and self-Indigna∣tion will be upon every Soul that did neglect them for perishing Bubbles and empty No∣things: Which then they find, as before they might have learned, to come to nothing at all; for they were just had and passed by. And yet by the Nature of them, by the utmost Certain∣ty and Reality of future and invisible things

they might have been perswaded to seek dili∣gently after them.

For the same Word of Truth, which spake of the one, hath told us of the other also. By the Word of the Lord were the Heavens made, Psal. 33. 6. And upholding all things by the Word of his Power, Heb. 1. 3. which hath created and given to each thing its Nature; and now connects and holds things fast together as they are The same Word saith, For behold, I create new Heavens, and a new Earth, Isa. 65. 17. so that as certainly as things now are, and stand af∣ter this manner as they do at present, they will be likewise so fulfilled as we are foretold of. Those gracious Promises in Isa. 45. 17, 18, 19. are confirmed with the like Reason, which is as it were inserted between them, viz. But Israel shall be saved in the Lord with an ever∣lasting Salvation: Ye shall not be ashamed, nor confounded World without End. For thus saith the Lord that created the Heavens; God himself that formed the Earth and made it; he hath esta∣blished it, he created it not in vain: he formed it to be inhabited, I am the Lord and there is none else. I have not spoken in secret, in a dark Place of the Earth: I said not unto the Seed of Jacob, seck ye me in vain: I the Lord speak Righteousness, I declare things that are right. Here is an An∣swer and full Satisfaction given to that com∣mon Question and Thought, what do People get by the Service of God? They expose them∣selves to prevent Self-denial and Labour, but

what Recompence and Gain? For if others are diligent after worldly things, they do com∣monly obtain. But here we are assured of that which cannot be had in this World, To be saved with an everlasting Salvation. There is no pre∣sent Return to exercise our Faith and Waiting. So that now we become liable to Shame and Disappointment by labouring for nothing: Yet what saith the Witness of God? Ye shall not be ashamed World without End. At long run it shall not be thus. At the End of Time it shall be otherwise; and this is ratified by what we now see, even his lesser Works are done for some Purpose, as in the Instance here assigned, the Earth was created to be inhabited. But here again Faith is exercised; for some things seem to be created in vain, and a Part of the Earth is not inhabited, as barren Mountains and the waste howling Wilderness; yet there are also Creatures of some Sorts, and God may have great Intents and Purposes herein, which we know not as yet, but shall know. He asserts himself by his Name, the Lord, to be AL∣MIGHTY, the chief and only Ruler, and none can controul him; so that he will per∣form what he hath said. If one thinks within himself to do thus, or makes private Promises, there he may alter his Mind or Falsify and meet with no Discredit, but only from the Person to whom it was entrusted. But God declares out of the Thoughts of his Heart, and speaks out pub∣lickly to all the World, that neither the Seed of

Jacob, nor any one who doth the Works of Abraham, or comes within the Covenant made to the Patriarchs, shall seek him in vain. Again, He confirms it further by his righteous Nature, and declaring the things that are right. So we may be bold to say, that where in serving him we submit our selves to present Loss or La∣bour, there God is pleased to speak in Righte∣ousness; and thence we may assuredly gather, that he will render a Reward accordingly. But as he is gracious and bountiful, it will as much exceed our Works, as if one should give a Thousand Pounds to a Labourer, when he de∣serves no more than a Penny. God is not un∣righteous to forget your Work and Labour of Love, Heb. 6. 10. He will take notice of every thing that is done purely for him. Thou tellest my Wandrings, put thou my Tears into thy Bottle: Are they not in thy Book, Psal. 56. 8. As he doth take Knowledge of every least Sin and Error; so likewise will he make up abundantly to us for all the Sorrow and Hardship we have su∣stained for him. A Book of Remembrance was written before him, for them that feared the Lord and thought on his Name, Mal. 3. 16. in which is recorded all the Reproaches they endured from the wicked, and also every right Work they have done with all the particular Circum∣stances thereof. The Apostle advises, Look to your selves that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full Reward, 2 John 8. So the like Admonition may be given

to those who are as yet unconverted and in a State of Sin, that they defer not one Moment longer to turn unto the Lord their God. For besides the Danger of being cut off in their Sins, and the Doubtfulness of gaining God's Favour and Acceptation; but if they should obtain, yet they deprive themselves of a greater Re∣ward. Though the long and habituated Sin∣ner may be saved, that is, only when he turns from all the Sins which he hath committed, and doth that which is lawful and right; yet it will be as by Fire, that is with Difficulty: However, he shall suffer Loss: That is, it would be better for him throughout all Eternity, if he had never continued in such a Course of Sin. What Fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? Rom. 6. 21. There is no Be∣nefit and Advantage in them. So likewise Time slides away, such Opportunities are irre∣vocably lost which might be improved to a blessed Eterntiy. So much might be done in the mean while towards building up a Mansi∣on in the Heavens. The Foundation may in due time be laid; and upon this he may build Gold, Silver, precious Stones, Wood, Hay, Stub∣ble: He may wisely contrive and do the best Works. Every Man's Works shall be made ma∣nifest, for the Day shall declare it, 1 Cor. 3. 13. The Light shall shew of what Kind it is, and how it hath been wrought all along, even when it was in Beginning, and so till the Finishing thereof. It shall be strictly examined and sur∣veyed,

as Gold in the Fire, which purges away the Dross, when the pure Metal remains, and appears more excellent. If any Man's Work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a Reward, 1 Cor. 3. 14. If he hath been em∣ployed about enduring things, here is another Promise and Confirmation hereof.

What Need of such abundant Mention and giving so full Assurance concerning a Reward? Why have we not a good God, who giveth us now all things richly to enjoy? May we not do something for him by way of Gratitude and Thankfulness for former Mercies, without Ex∣pectation of any thing more? Where is our Love and Ingenuity that we cannot act by the Principles of an excellent Nature, but must be led on by Mercenariness? Our Want and im∣perfection call for something more than we have already. But then we should desire some∣what which is worthy. It is Narrowness of Spirit and Ignorance of Mind to run so greedily after worldly and present Recompence, or to imagine more therein than really is. It is base Selfishness to do nothing but for the Sake of Profit in Case we are somewhat sufficient be∣fore. But seeing that most have not and they must live by Labour; and the Blessing and the Promise is, For thou shalt eat the Labour of thine Hands, happy shalt thou be and it shall be well with thee, Psal. 128. 2. there it may be honestly sought after and had. In every thing there is Trial (What is Man that thou shouldst try him eve∣ry

Moment!) And nevertheless it is further so ordained that the Servant of God may ap∣prove himself therein, and yet not be in Neces∣sity of falling. There are the Wages of Ini∣quity and Unrighteousness, the Gifts of Satan, which are offered and had upon unlawful Means if they will decline from the Law of the most High, consent unto some Evil, and so fall down and worship the Author thereof: Where∣as if they would keep their Integrity; continue whole and stedfast in his Covenant, God hath annexed further unto that a precious Promise and exceeding Reward.

Who hath first given to him and it shall be recom∣penced to him again? For of him, and through him, and to him are all things, Rom. 11. 35, 36. He hath first furnished us with Means, and enabled with Power to perform whatever we do. He hath given Knowledge, Strength, In∣clination and Impulse. It is done by his as∣sisting and working Grace, and at his Com∣mand and Requiring. If I may use such a plain and common Phrase, least it should be said, God is any thing beholden to his Creatures he doth give them such an overabundunt Requi∣tal, even before we had done what was our Du∣ty to do. And what he is pleased to add fur∣ther, is infinitely-beyond our, deserving, nei∣ther could we have any Expectation thereof un∣less himself had foretold us. By Faith Boasting is excluded, for Faith is the Gift of God, and also it apprehends things unutterable and so

exceeding great that it is no more Vertue and Excellency to receive them, than stooping down to the Ground to take up a Diamond, or going half a Mile for a Bag of Gold and to have it for our Pains. The Prize set befors us doth yet exceed our utmost Endeavour after it. So that the having an Eye unto the Recom∣pence of Reward, doth quite stop our Mouth and take away all manner of Boasting. For it is evident, when such exceeding great and pre∣cious Promises will scarce move us to Obedi∣ence; and where they do, yet not to perform it continually; much less should we have done such as is commanded if we had no Promises at all. Even in those things which we think we need not do, as in Free-will Offerings and what we would do of our own Accord, There is a secret Hope and Expectation that God would take notice thereof: And a Thought doth arise, at least a Doubt and Staggering, whether if we were assured that he would not requite it but yet accept and be well-pleased with it, then the Tryal would be whether we would still do the same only out of Love and Thankfulness, admitting it would further ex∣pose us to present Inconveniences and Trou∣ble. Our Nature is either averse or sluggish that we have need of something to conquer and stir us up; first to bring us in, and then to quicken us in the right way. To move us to begin, and then to keep us continually in doing. Now to him that worketh is the Reward

reckoned not of Grace but of Debt, Rom. 4. 4. So it is of one Man from another as may be ga∣thered from Vers. 2. For if Abraham be justifi∣ed by Works, he hath whereof to glory, but not be∣fore God. If one labours for another he is not beholden to him for Wages, for the Work is as profitable and beneficial to the one as Pay∣ment is to the other: But the Case is other∣stise between God and us; for first he hath wrought all our Works in us, he brought us into Being, and hath fed us up hitherto: And one Way or another he hath prevented, as∣sisted and directed in those things which more immediately relate unto him, though we are heedless as not to discern it, no more than we perceive how we live and move in him, which yet we do all along, that to him belongs all the Glory and Praise thereof. The utmost in Man is his Liberty of acting and working to∣gether with the Grace of God; but still he first implanted that Power and Ability; and when it turns towards Good, it was God and his Grace that weighed down the Scale, and over-ruled it unto the right and true Way.

Alass! We are such small and finite Crea∣tures, that the utmost we do is very little and next to nothing: For if the best Performances of the greatest and most diligent Saints on Earth be considered, what is their Righteous∣ness unto him? Or what receives he of their Hands? Even they come short of what they might have done yet more, for they might

have further improved their Talent. Therefore I say unto you, the Kingdom of God shall be taken from you and given to a Nation bringing forth the Fruits thereof, Mat. 21. 43. But since the preach∣ing and Promulgation of the Gospel to the World no Nation hath yet brought forth such Fruits (God knows what will be done in the latter Days) as might be justly expected from it. Nothing hath been done answerable to the precious Truths contained therein. It was the Lord who gave the Word, who planted the Trees, but the Ground hath not brought forth suitable Increase thereof. The Husbandmen have not manured and dressed it as they should have done. And what Fruits have been, or shall at length spring up from it, Lord, thou hast but what is thine own: They are but liv∣ing Instruments, all one as the Spade or Pru∣ning Hook in the Hands of the Gardiner; and at last the Work suffers Loss and Disadvan∣toge by Reason of those employed therein. If they do any thing rightly, it is of God that they do so, but the Weakness and Fault is of themselves only: God worketh in us both to will and to do: He hath shewed us how; so that all things and all our Works are to be at∣tributed to him only: He sits above and Christ at his Right Hand, expecting what his Servants will do for him; in like manner as till his Ene∣mies are made his Footstool: Both which are consequent one to the other; for by means of his Servants he will overcome the rebellious and make them submit under him.

The Lord looketh down from Heaven upon the Children of Men, to see if there were any that did understand and seek God, Psal. 14. 1. That did rightly apprehend the End of their Being in this World and did look after their Maker, that by the things known already did ascend yet further. That by what is known of God, did seek out yet more, if they could find out further Trace and Footsteps of this invisible Being. As his Way is in the Waters, he rideth upon the Wings of the Wind and the Clouds are the Dust of his Feet, so we may see God in every thing. To behold him, not only in the Sanctuary, but in every Part of his Temple, which is Heaven and Earth, and in each Part and Corner thereof. To behold him in his visible Works, and to perceive him in his in∣visible things. To understand that great Re∣lation of the Creator and his Creatures: But more especially how we are concerned with that God with whom we have all to do. What he doth require of us, and what we are to ren∣der unto him. The Phrase of looking down to see doth plainly denote that they are left to their Freedom and Liberty. The same is like∣wise signified in the Parable of the Vineyard, Isa. 5. and Mark 12. 1, 2. where God hath done all things that were necessary and rea∣sonable, and looks what will come of it: Whe∣ther those Powers of acting he hath endued the Sons of Men withal will be employed in the right way, or in extravagant things, or be fold∣ed up in Idleness and Sloth.

Every Branch in me that beareth not Fruit he taketh away, and every Branch that beareth Fruit he purgeth it that it may bring forth more Fruit, John 15. 2. To all is committed at first some Grace and Power in order to spiritual things; but who do not use it accordingly, it is with∣drawn from them. But to them who manage aright is committed yet more that they should labour according to the Strength given them. For whatever is in us is to be used and put forth. Knowledge is to be communicated, and still further Degrees and Increase thereof is to be sought after in order to impart that forth again. Truth is to be declared and spoken out, and this also is to be sought after and received for the aforesaid End and Purpose. As the Blos∣som is to the Fruit, so is Knowledge to Obe∣dience and good Works. The first is the Prin∣ciple, it goes before and gives Hope of the Fruit which is better; and accordingly will end in that unless it be blasted and withered. So this is the Beginning of our Duty; for we cannot do any thing in order to God unless we know somewhat of him. We cannot keep his Law till we apprehend what it is: As there is an Unwillingness, Aversation, Forgetfulness of God and good things; so there should be something to overcome that, to stir up our Re∣membrance, to keep this always in the Ima∣gination of our Heart. O Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and of Israel our Fathers, keep this for ever in the Imagination of the Thoughts of

the Heart of thy People, and prepare their Heart unto thee, 1 Chron. 29. 18. Nevertheless it is too often seen through the marvellous Subtil∣ty of Satan (who doth every way endeavour to beguile and to beat off) that many have good and right Knowledge, but it remains as it were blasted, for it lies dead within and doth not shoot forth into well-doing. Many times it drops off and Perishes, having no Root or Stalk in them; for taking no Delight, and appre∣hending no Good therein, they suffer it to pass through their Understanding as Water run∣ning through a Pipe; which may wet and moi∣sten a little for the Time, but returns to its for∣mer Driness. They may be a little affected for the Time, but afterwards they do not mind nor give heed thereafter. It makes a goodly Shew and Appearance without, but it is meer Leaf and Colour, and nothing worth unless it grows towards Fruit and Perfection.

God is not to be served by halves. As he requires the whole Man, so he would have his Work finished and compleat, or else a tending towards it, if it be such as he will accept of. Shew me thy Faith without thy Works, and I will shew thee my Faith by my Works, Jam. 2. 18. Faith may be without Works, but Works is a good Sign of Faith. If they be right spiritual and Divine Works, they must have Faith and Knowledge for Beginning and Performance of the same; for wouldst thou know, wherefore they are done by some and not by others? Be∣cause,

some understand the Obligation they are under, and the Encouragement they have to the same. All People would alike do the Will of God if they have the like Thoughts and Ap∣prehensions concerning the same. There is one Faith and one Hope. So they might equal∣ly believe and have the same Assurance of good things to come, if they would study and seek diligently after them. If they would suffer themselves to know their Duty and be in a Readiness to perform the same, God would reveal it unto them: Provided they do receive the Knowledge thereof, and not put it off and stifle it: He would incline them to do the same, if they would yield unto and not resist his Mo∣tions. He would give his Spirit if they would not grieve nor quench it; and if they would preserve their Body in Holiness and Sobriety, fit for its Habitation, he would enlighten and re∣ctifie their Understandings, if they would draw off the thick Coverings of Ignorance and Disobedience; which make that either the Mind cannot apprehend at all, or it is full of Falshood and Delusions: For the Transgres∣sors having not observed but departed from the Law of the most High, to save and defend themselves, they seek out for Excuses and Imaginations; and through the Perplexity and Maze of them, the Sinner doth not so easily ap∣prehend what is good and true. A deceived Heart hath turned him aside, Isa. 44. 20. So it is always, when one starts or goes out of the good Way: And likewise the same hinders it

from coming in; as, a secret Imagination that it is soon enough, or, pray have me excused for this and the like Reason. There is an hun∣dred Kind of Surmises or Imaginations.

But in Allusion to what our Saviour saith, take heed how ye hear, so let People take heed how they think, for God discerns their inner∣most Thoughts, as plainly as if they were wrote upon their Face, or spoken out aloud in the Market-place. However they keep them close and concealed from his faithful People and Mi∣nisters, least they should find something in the Word of Truth to convince them of their Er∣rors and Mistake, so that they need not to go on therein; yet in the mean while known to God are all of them, and he will one Day spread them forth before their Faces in the Sight of Angels and Men; and lay it all open, and detect the whole by his eternal Truth. They are so angry and vexed at present, as if we could inform God who searches all things out and knows the very Secrets of the Heart; or as if we did bring their Sins to Remembrance, when himself hath declared that he considers all their Ways,: Though he doth now hold his Tongue, Hab. 1. 13. yet our God shall come and shall not keep Silence, Psal. 50. 3. He shall rehearse the Thoughts, Words and Actions of the whole Life. These things hast thou done and I kept Si∣lence: Thou thoughtest that I was altogether such an one as thy self, but I will reprove thee and set them in order before thine Eyes, Psal. 50. 21. The Time, Place, Circumstances and Aggravati∣ons

will be all manifested, and as they were Day by Day committed, so they shall be reck∣oned up. In the Midst of Transgression there was no such notice taken of them because God kept Silence; but it might even then have been known that our God would reprove People for the same; because even then he did some∣times do it a little by his Word and Servants, and by the still Voice of his Spirit within them. And though we know nothing of one another, yet God is pleased to convey into our Mind some secret Intents and close Imaginations, giving us thereby to understand that he knows them all; for he gave us this Knowledge. And if the World is now so enraged when only a few Thoughts of their Heart are revealed, good God, what Fear and Confusion will they be in? What Terror and strange Amazement will possess them when all the Thoughts of all the Sons of Men since they have been created on the Earth, shall be fully manifested. For there is not a Word in my Tongue, but lo, O Lord, thou knowest it altogether, Psal. 139. 4. And then all Evil corrupt Communications, Lies, vain Swearing, false Oaths, Blasphemies, hard Speech∣es against God, Jude. 15. Reproaches of his People, Slander and Backbitings, with all the Sins of the Tongue, which is a World of Ini∣quity, shall be summed up: So he, who consi∣dereth all their Ways, shall bring up all their ungodly Deeds, wicked and unjust Actions; the first whereof they did endeavour to hide from

the Saints here on Earth, and the latter even from their common Neighbours. If they had but the Knowledge of God, they would under∣stand all this at the present Time; for even now we live under him whose Eyes run to and fro throughout the whole Earth, and are in every Place beholding the Evil and the Good. He hath given his Word which is a Discerner of the Thoughts and Intents of the Heart; for that speaks out concerning them, and declare them unto us. Neither is any Creature that is not manifest in his Light, but all things are naked and opened unto the Eyes of him with whom we have to do, Heb. 4. 11. Not only divine Revelation, but common Reason teacheth the very same: For as our Lord argued to the Pharisees, Ye Fools, did not be that made that which is without, make that which is within also? Luke 11. 40. so he who fashioned every Part of us, must like∣wise know all that is therein. He that planted the Ear, shall he not hear? He that formed the Eye, shall he not see? So he, who created the Soul with Powers to know, must also much more know himself, and also every thing which she thinks or doth. The Scripture in sundry Places asserts this all-knowing Property of God. There is no Darkness nor Shadow of Death, where the Workers of Iniquity may hide themselves: And they which would not commit Wickedness before such a Man, who perhaps hath the faint Image of God within, as to hate and loath Evil; and therefore, if

such a Spy is in their Presence (as they term him) there is a Secret Awe and Restraint upon their Spirits. But why might not these understand that there is one greater among them who sees and beholds all that they do: Who is holy and hateth all Wickedness? who is the Judge of all Men, and will certainly call them to an Account for what they are now a doing. Yet the Sense of him doth not keep them off from evil-doing: Which happens only from their Ignorance and Forgetfulness of him. For, would not his Holiness and Purity keep them in perfect Order and Subjection, when one who is a less Partaker thereof than a Drop to the whole Ocean doth cast a Damp and clog that they cannot so freely enjoy the Pleasures of Sin, nor run on so uncontroulably in the broad Way which leads unto Destruction. When now they would refrain to do such a thing if a strict Demand and Account should be required of them, would they not much more abstain if they were sensibly assured that the Lord himself shall come with Ten Thousand of his Saints to execute Judgment upon all. He now sitteth in the Heavens and prepareth his Seat for Judgment; and as sure as this is the Time of Trial, so there will be a Day of Exa∣mination and rendring unto every one accor∣ding to his Deeds. Who are now so averse and afraid to hear or speak of him, when we know but little more than of his Name and Truth, which we hear with the Ear, and see

it thus written of him, and conceive in the Mind. But how will they fly back and be asto∣nished, when God himself shall come, and the very things shall be manifested whereof it is now a Vexation only to understand the Report. Who would not receive the Kingdom of God when heretofore it was in Word, how must they submit unto it when it shall be actually in Deed? When he sent a Message to reign over them, and Officers to set up his Kingdom, but they did not receive that and did evil entreat them whom he had sent, what will they do when the King himself shall come with his Ar∣mies, and miserably destroy those wicked Men? He now speaketh from Heaven by his Word, and the Time draweth nigh when he will ful∣fill the same. This Word drops in by way of silent Thought to the Heart; or it is heard by hearing of the Ear, from a Fellow Creature, or it is conveyed unto us by Means of Ink and Paper; all which is but a still Voice, whereby God doth now manifest himself unto us. So he sent his only Son the eternal Word, which was made Flesh, who dwelt here and became as one of us, that God might be more familiar and acquainted with our Nature; and also to try whether we would thus receive and obey him. But as many as received him, to them he gave Power to become the Sons of God, John 1. 12. It is said nothing is more free than a Gift; so the tendring and offer thereof is free, so like∣wise the Receipt and Acceptance thereof is a free Act, for it might be refused.

If God the Father had shewn his Greatness and Glory, then People would run unto him as now they ignorantly stay away for a little shadow and representation thereof from the World. But when he hath revealed himself in a little contemptible Appearance, this will prove whether they will take their Lot and Portion with that at present, and expect the greater things to come. Whether notwith∣standing the Vail and Covering drawn over the things of God, they can yet discern the Glory that excelleth? whether they will be∣lieve this Word, which hath spoken of more than what is now seen or had. Again, If he should at present reveal himself in his Majesty and Power, then People would presently yield unto him who is mighty, much more than they now pay Reverence and Submission to the King and great Men, as he who is King of Kings, and Lord of Lords, doth exceed the greatest and highest of the Sons of Men. VVhich is so infinite, that no Compassion can be made to express the just and true distance. But when this God hideth himself, when he seems as one asleep, and taketh no notice; when he doth not actually give his Favour pre∣sently to them that do well, nor yet doth he immediately Manifest forth his severe displea∣sure against them who sin and transgress; when it is alike with Subjects and Enemies. VVho fear God, and who fear him not; this will exercise our Faith and waiting, as also prove their Rebellion and Contempt.

Indeed there are the Promises and Threat∣nings annexed, and all must partake of the one, or they are liable to the other: But yet the Conditions of one are put into our power; and none, unless by his own fault or wilfull∣ness, doth fall under the other. His Kingdom and Dominion is over all; every thing that can be named, or doth any where exist; but then he ruleth over them according to their several Natures. The VVinds and Sea Obey him necessarily; Beasts, Birds, and Creeping things, go constantly according to that In∣stinct implanted in them; which is as it were a Law unto them. To Man is committed Re∣velation and Reason for to guide him; ne∣vertheless, he may disregard, act contrary, or yield unto and comply with its dictates. So much is left to his freedom and choice. There is set before him Life and Good, Death and Evil, with a repeated inculcation to choose Life. And though when these two opposite things are simply and abstractedly proposed, every one hath so much Understanding as would preserve, and make him happy: Yet the great doubt and mistake is concerning the way and means of one or the other; which also are laid before the Sons of Men, and of∣fered to their choice and liberty, as the End is. It might first of all be rationally and assu∣redly concluded, That where the End is Right, Good and Desirable, so is every thing that necessarily tends towards it; for upon a rot∣ten

Stock and Foundation there can never be a sure Building. So contrariwise, where the End is dismal, and feared by every one, they might well suspect the several steps leading to∣wards it, and consequently refrain to move a step further, which they might if they would. As they evidently see and know that God hath put it into their power at first to go into one way or another; and when they are in a little, they may stand still or go backwards, or rather turn aside from out of it: So likewise by God's Grace and Invitation, They may come unto Life, John 5. 40. and it is of themselves that they fall into Death and Destruction, Hos. 13. 9.

This last thing being attendant to their re∣fusal of coming unto God and Obeying his Voice, doth seem to imply as if they were forced. But if so, they would actually do it; for are Men stronger than He? God is All∣mighty, and must prevail, if it were the pur∣pose of his Heart to compel Mankind unto his Obedience. He could raise up Hell from be∣neath, and set it evidently before our Eyes, as Nebuchadnezzar did the Fiery Furnace. He could even now Command his Angels to sound the Trumpet (as at the last day when the dead shall hear his Voice) that every Nation, Coun∣try and Language, all that are now living, should fall down and VVorship him, or they shall be cast into Hell. He could so order it even at this present time, That those which

do Iniquity, shall be cast immediately thereupon into a Furnance of Fire; and then the boldest worker thereof would fear, tremble and refrain. He could stir up those terrible ones from under the Earth, Devils and infernal Spirits, the Executioners of his VVrath (who should over∣awe poor Mortals) all one, as a mighty King with his Armies doth now make them do this or that thing at his pleasure. For hath he not the same power as Man to whom he gave being, and hath before committed unto him the Power of doing whatever he doth. Cannot he who sitteth upon the Circle of the Earth, and the Inhabitants thereof are as Grashoppers, do as much, or rather more, than any two∣footed Creature that now walks thereon? Can∣not the High and Lofty One, who sitteth up∣on his Throne, and commandeth over the Armies in Heaven (who are greater in power and might as that wide place above is bigger than this spot of ground here where we dwell) send forth his Authority, and execute the same here? Is this too far off when it is his Foot∣stool? for he filleth all places and all things, even those under the Earth with his presence. If I make my Bed in Hell, behold thou art there, Psal. 139. 8. Even now he sends sorth his Lightning unto the Ends of the Earth, and his Arrows go throughout the World. But because God doth not yet manifest his Power, and shew forth all his Might, a thought doth arise in them who know not God, as if he cannot do

this. They, who have a little more knowledge are sometimes apt to imagine, That because he acts here by outward means, which are but little and small, that by reason of them is the Defect; and they are unable to atchieve such great and mighty things? whereas his infinite Wisdom and Glory are here to be seen in or∣daining strength out of weakness. VVho first made, he will also enable them to perform what he would have them to do. He can send forth his Angels or other Instruments, whom we have not known, nor heard of as yet.

A Temptation doth arise, that though God can, yet he will not do thus; for so we have heard in Old Time, and in our days over and over, and yet all things continue as they were since the Creation. But the Apostle in 2 Pet. 3. 5, 6. answers this by what God did of Old, both by Creation of, and Drowning the VVorld. For this they are willingly ignorant of, That by the Word of God the Heavens were of Old, and the Earth stamding out of the Water, and in the Wa∣ter; whereby the World that then was, being over∣flowed with Water perished. But the Heavens and the Earth which are now, by the same Word are kept in store, reserved unto Fire against the day of Judgment and perdition of Ʋngodly Men. That same VVord which spake them first into Being, acquainted Noah, Gen 6. of the intended Flood; and afterwards this same word brought the VVaters; for God Commanded them. The same VVord hath likewise said, that it shall be

thus in the latter days, to which we now haste.

Thus it is determined upon all those who in the mean time have been Ungodly, or are, or shall hereafter not give regard to the great God above, or are disobedient to him; for all such are ungodly, without God in the VVorld, who do not live in sense of Submission and Duty under him. These might even now conceive, that as in the beginning the Lord laid the Foundations of the Earth and it abideth, as they find by moving and dwelling thereon. As they see the gathering of the VVaters which is called Sea; and as we behold the Heavens upheld, and the Stars in their Courses and Places: So surely doth the threatning lye against such, and will be fulfilled, when these things shall be so changed, as we are further foretold of. As before it was observed of the stedfastness and immutability of the Promise, from Isa. 45. So from 2 Pet. 3. it may be ga∣thered of the utmost certainty of the Evil and Good things there spoken of: They seem therefore to be out of sight, and to come to prove how we in the mean while will be con∣cerned and affected towards them. There is a little imperfect Good in the One at present, and a lesser Evil and Harm in the other; but God will so add further, that the one shall be perfected in Reward and Happiness, the other shall end in Punishment and Misery. My Son forget not my Law, but let thine heart keep my Commandments, for Length of Days, and long

Life and Peace shall they add unto you, Prov. 3. 1, 2. and when the first is ended, there shall succeed Immortality and Glory: And the Peace here shall go out in Ravishment, Extasie and un∣utterable Rejoycing. So again, Sin, which now hurts for a moment, doth bring on Torment for ever. What occasions Sorrow and Vexati∣on, doth deliver over to the VVorm which shall never die. VVhat occasions Sickness and Pain, doth likewise bring forth Death and the Vengeance of Eternal Fire. All that is seen or had here, is but an earnest of like and worse things to come. The less do fore-run, and give notice of the greater. And as in the former case, by the comfort and satisfaction of the one, we should much more desire and pray after that which exceedeth: So by the sensible incon∣venience and trouble of the latter way, we should much more abhor and dread the End thereof, which is Death. As we now taste and feel it is thus, so we may believe, and be fully assured it shall be so hereafter, as the faithful and true VVitness saith, Behold I have told you before. By the real Good of one way we may well depend further upon the substance of things hoped for. By the hurt and deceitful∣ness of the other, we may be sufficiently fore∣warned of the Destruction and Misery in that way.

The Nature of Rewards and Punish∣ments, Exhortation and Dehortation, Pro∣mises and Threatnings, do denote that

Man is left to his Liberty and Freedom. All these do inform and acquaint him how things stand pertaining to him, That he might par∣take of the Good, and avoid the Evil. God hath thus established the Connexion and Order of things. They are set before Mankind, and placed so near, that they are become as close∣ly appendant to him as his Flesh and Spirit, so they must have the one or the other. His trial is appointed in things absolutely neces∣sary, which he cannot be without, as Meat, Drink, and Rayment to the Body, and in Thoughts as to the Soul, which are the very Essence of it; for the Soul will cease to be, when it shall cease to think. And lest the Soul should degenerate into Sloth and Bruitishness, of that we are rouzed up to take heed by the Parable of the unprofitable Servant, whose Doom was, Cast him into outer Darkness, there shall be weeping and gnashing of Teeth. VVho would not receive and ascend up towards the Light, but walked all his days in the Mist of Ignorance, He shall be thrust down to the low∣est Dungeon, and be confined unto utter Dark∣ness: For the former seeming Ease and Stu∣pidity, there will succeed continued self-indig∣nation. His Soul was then employed about somewhat; and if not about that Talent in∣trusted with him by the God of the Spirits of all Flesh, yet he had some little Thought, or seeming excuse for his Refusal and Disobedi∣ence. The knowledge was conveyed in; the

Obligation and Necessity thereof was consider∣ed in the Mind, and there was a willing delay and putting it off. In those debates and rea∣sonings within, there is a manifest thinking this or that way. Now the Scale turns on this side, and then on that. And as there is a capa∣city to think freely, so there is a power to do accordingly, or a contrary froward going on in his way, or a wretched doing nothing at all.

The Lord knoweth our frame, Psal. 103. 14. the disposal and tendency of each part of our Nature; and accordingly in his VVord and Truth application is made to the Children of Men. To this end are those several kinds of Expostulation in the Psalms, Prophets, and throughout the Old and New Testament. Some things are to inform and teach the Under∣standing, others are to subdue and bring over the VVill; and the several Affections are par∣ticularly spoken unto. So that read where you will, you may find some part of your Soul moved. And then there is the example of Saints recorded, who were Men of like Passions and Infirmities with our selves, that we also might do the same, which others have done before us. God addresseth himself to us as we are Men, to judge of the equality of his ways, and of what he saith and commandeth us. He bringeth us up, and implants a capacity to know the Good, and refuse the Evil. He giveth Senses to discern between one and the other.

He acquaints us over and over with the very Nature of things at present, and also fore∣warns us of things to come.

Survey the whole Dispensation and Exercise of God's Dominion over us. Consider each part and method thereof. Look into the my∣stery of the Kingdom, Remember his doings of Old Time, Think upon what he doth now; and also take in the Consummation of all what he hath said and sworn he will yet perform: Then thou mayest understand, that as he made People free, so he would govern them as such. He would have them serve him with joyfulness and gladness of Heart, and what they do it should be with a willing and ready Mind; for the Lord loves the answer of such a Soul, when he saith, Seek ye my Face, Thy Face Lord will I seek. That comes at first as soon as he is called, and afterwards is in a continual rea∣diness to receive further Direction and Com∣mand, and then is in an actual and speedy per∣formance of the same. VVhere is a willing Mind there is no seeking out Excuses and De∣lays. There is no shifting and trying to put it off; There is no Controversie or Dispute of Mind, whether I should serve God presently or not. For if there is a right Knowledge of him, and of the Terms upon which we are to enter into his Service, we come as readily to him as one that was hired to the best of Ma∣sters according to the Flesh, who will give the greatest VVages, and most kind Usage. Saith

our Saviour unto his Disciples and Followers, Henceforth I call you not Servants; for the Ser∣vant knoweth not what his Lord doth. But I have called, you Friends, John 15. 15. Here is yet a nearer Relation and Honour, to be admitted into Friendship with him who is King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Faith apprehends this ex∣ceeding Priviledge, and esteems of it more than to have for assured Friends the King, all the Nobility and Gentry of this or the Neigh∣bour Nations; Or if Love is lessened when it is divided into so many Particulars, it is bet∣ter than to have two, three, or a few only of the greatest and wisest Personages on Earth. Christ unto the Believers Soul is the chiefest of Ten Thousand; nay, he is more to her than all the Persons and Things in the VVorld. Now where is an intimate Love and Union, (as we expect his Grace and Benefits, and hope for Gifts from him) so likewise we must do the things he saith, and whatever he doth re∣quire. Our Voice and Desire is, Come Lord Jesus, come quickly; and his Answer is again to the Church, And behold I come quickly; and my Reward is with me, to give to every Man ac∣cording as his work shall be, Rev. 22. 12. And seeing the time allotted for that VVork is short, though it was spoken to the Traytor Judas, it may be also applied to his faithful Disciples and Followers, What thou hast to do, do quickly. VVe have his own Example and Words for it, I must work the Works of him

that sent me while it is Day: The Night cometh when no Man can work, John 9. 4. According∣ly he did go about doing good and preaching the Kingdom of God, making known all things he had heard from his Father. The Wise Man calleth upon us, Whatsoever thy Hand find∣eth thee to do, do it with all thy Might: For there is no Work, nor Device, nor Knowledge, nor Wis∣dom in the Grave whither thou goest, Eccles. 9. 10. So whatever God and his Christ commandeth and requireth of thee, do it with all conveni∣ent Speed and as soon as thou canst before the Opportunity slip from thee, or the Means be taken away, or thy self be cut off; for thou art but Flesh and always dying. After this is done God may have more for thee: He will proportion thy Reward according to thy La∣bour. If thou diminishest ought from that thou wilt lose so much of a greater Recom∣pence. The more thou dost at this present, the more thou wilt receive for all Eternity: What is done each Day or Hour, is laying up a Treasure for many Ages.

There may be somewhat of this signified in the Words of our Saviour, who speaketh the same to us as he did to the Disciples, Ye say that there are Four Months and then cometh Harvest: Lift up your Eyes, for the Fields even now are white unto Harvest, John 4. 35. And he that reapeth, gathereth Fruit unto everlasting Life. We may think and deceive our selves that such a Work is to be done hereafter, when if we con∣sider

throughly, all things are now ready for the Performance of the same. But admitting it were not to be done until then, yet such good Acts may be done in the mean while which are preparatory to that, as the Hus∣bandman fits all things in the mean while; or we may in the Space between serve God to some other End and Purpose: That no Day pass over our Head without doing some thing to the Glory of God and to the Benefit of Souls. Every thing here is in order to eternal Life; and as we are here always going towards that, and the Life we now live is continually hast∣ning towards its Period; so we should at all times make Provision against this shall fail to be received up into the other, that we may there continually partake of somewhat which we have done here. Indeed the Fruits of the Earth do spring up and are ripe at such cer∣tain Seasons of the Year according to the Cli∣mate or Countrey; but still the Husbandman hath some Employment all the Year round. The Kingdom of God over the Souls of Men is not confined to Times and Seasons, as in such an Age or Part of Life, to such a Month or Day of the Year. But this Work may be carrying on at all Times and Seasons. The Word may be preached in Season and out of Season, at Summer or VVinter, Spring or Autumn, Sab∣bath or VVeek-day, in the Day-time or at Mid-night, as they are journeying or sitting still, in the Closet, Family or Congregation.

Truth shall spring out of the Earth, Psal. 85. 11. at what time it shall please the Lord to open the Fountains of the great Depth. And as the VVind bloweth when and where it listeth, so he shall give his Spirit to search it out. So again Righteousness shall look down from Hea∣ven, when the Lord shall pour down his Spirit from on high; which as he hath done several Times already, so it may acquaint us further of the things there. He may instruct his Ser∣vants as those of old, in what Disposition of Body and Soul they must be in for to receive it. To get the foregoing Qualifications of Faith, Knowledge, Love of God, Obedience, Holiness, Humility, convenient Retirement and separating from their Brethren that they may the more approach unto God. These things do not so much depend upon the outward Circumstances of set and definite Times of the Year, but they come to pass at what Time pleaseth the Father, and we receive the Grace and use the Means to be Partakers thereof.

Known unto God are the great things he will do for his Church; for they are fixed in his eternal Purpose and Determination, it is not for us to know the Times and Seasons which the Father hath put in his own Power, Acts 1. 7. Per∣haps the very Reason why these are not clearly revealed and manifested unto us, is least in the mean while we should neglect our own Con∣cern. Our Minds might so run upon what

things are to be done in the Generations fol∣lowing, that we should leave undone what ought to be done in this Generation wherein we now live. As the VVoman of Samaria saith, When the Messias is come he will tell us all things, John 8. 25. so we might be apt to apprehend it, as to refuse to learn any thing in the mean while: And when it is promised, The Earth shall be full of the Knowledge of the Lord as the Waters cover the Sea, Isa. 11. 9. VVe might con∣tent our selves with our former Ignorance, and reject any further Knowledge and Instruction in the mean while.

Even those great things of old time have been transacted by outward Means; and we ought still to use those Means which are in our Power, to put them forth with all our Skill and Might, and then let the Lord do what seemeth him good. We know not at first what a Blessing and Success he may give unto them, but we may somewhat perceive it after∣wards. Then things may rise up beyond our Expectations, when in the Beginning we are apt to distrust and faint in our Mind. Had our selves done nothing, or after we had under∣taken it, then let it fall, then it was our own Refusal that we were not Instruments in carry∣ing on the Work of the Lord; or he might take it from us, and make choice of and give it unto others who should throughly perform his Will. If the Way is shewed unto us, and we are put in such a Capacity, we have also an

Impulse and Pressing of Mind to the same, and the VVork is right and good; as appears evi∣dently from his VVord and the Examples of old, there we may, and indeed ought to walk in that VVay, and actually do according to the Power given us, and also comply with the Di∣ctates of a rectified and truly informed Consci∣ence. If God may be glorified by such an Acti∣on and Good may be done unto others, this should be indeed performed: And seeing it should be done by some one, why not by thee to whom he hath given the Knowledge there∣of, endued with Ability, and is stirring thee up by his Spirit. We may learn from Exodus 4. 10, 11, 12, 13. that God is not pleased with Excuses or Delays, or with alledging our own Imperfections; for he made us at first, and can also mend and increase what he hath begun. He sent forth further Strength and Ability ac∣cording as the thing requires. The stammer∣ing Lips may at length speak plain as in the Beginning of Speech. The Voice, which was hasty and confused, may become clear and di∣stinct: And who acquaints at first in general with the Errand that he should go to such a Place, and do such a thing, will afterwards according to his own divine Method in Acts 9. 6. teach particularly what he shall say: And put the very Words into our Mouth a little before, or in the very same Hour, Mat. 10. 19. just as they are to be uttered forth: Remem∣bring still that we are but Instruments in the

Hands of God. We are to receive the Thoughts he puts into our Heart, and to speak them out with our Lips; but we can say no more nor think of pertaining to him than what he sug∣gests and puts into our Mind. We are to ex∣ecute what he puts into the Power of our Hands, but we can do no more. Our God doth not require more than he hath given. Those Talents are to be exercised and traded withal which he hath committed unto us; but he will never call us to Account for more than we have received: So we are to use Diligence and La∣bour according to what we can.

In the first Place we should pray unto God, O learn me true Ʋnderstanding and Knowledge that I may keep thy Commandments. Now these are either things to be abstained from, or things to be done. The first are properly Pro∣hibitions or Forbiddings; but the Word Com∣mandment imports Duty, which is to be done. That must be discerned and known before it can be begun; and because there may be Hin∣drances and Oppositions, those also are to be seen and overcome that it may be accomplish∣ed. In the Way to Heaven there are many Turnings aside, which we are to be acquainted withal and avoid that we may keep on still in the right Way; for if we go out there is so much Time and Labour lost to no purpose, which might have set so far on. The best Use hereof is to be more careful for the future to keep on right. In every worldly Business

and Design there are such foregoing Means. And if they do at first hit upon those which are true and prudent, they do sooner perform the matter in hand; but if they make use of false and foolish Means, they go backward or round about, and so they are further off or they wander: And then either they do not ac∣complish, or it is much a longer Time before they obtain what they would have.

Indeed there is another kind of Method in things pertaining to God than what is com∣monly made use of as to the things of this VVorld: For though the same VVisdom, Dili∣gence and Activity are to be used towards the future and spiritual things as we see People do in their present Designs and Enterprises, yet we ought not to venture upon all manner of Means. For the Word of God is right and all his Works are done in Truth, Psal. 33. 4. That Word is to be made our Direction all along, and we are to do nothing for God but what is holy and good: So we learn manifestly from his revealed Will, and also we find by the Success and Event thereof, for if his own pecu∣liar Servants do turn aside from the holy Com∣mandment delivered unto them, or do that which is sinful or doubtful (not being of Faith and full Perswasion of Mind) it doth not prosper unto them, but they are most com∣monly defeated; even the Wicked and Tans∣gressors, which do most flourish and have the things they desire and endeavour after, have

not a comfortable Enjoyment thereof, or they are given to vain Imaginations, tormenting Desires, continual Restlessness and Turmoil of Mind: So they have plenty, but no Satis∣faction. If there is but one Achan, a single Ba∣bylonish Wedge, this troubleth the whole Camp of Israel, and the Israelites are smitten before their Enemies. And this is many times a Reason, not only of the common Afflictions of God's faithful People in their private Per∣sons, but also his Church hath laboured under long continued Persecutions and Adversities; out of which they have attempted to redress themselves by unwarrantable and evil Means, which have been frustrate and came to naught, and then by giving occasion to the Enemy to think that they were not so holy as they pre∣tended; and thereupon they were kept faster in Bondage, and tormented yet more.

We ought carefully to use the Means, but we are in no wise to trust in them, nor seek to the Arm of Flesh as to put any Reliance thereon. God is exceeding jealous of his own Glory, that as all things are of him, so he would have all ascribed unto him: And there∣fore he doth purposely make use of little out∣ward Means, that it may be known that they have not done it, but he who sits above. He acts in an invisible Manner: He works and we see him not. By the silent but effectual Ope∣rations of his Spirit. Which the World receiveth not because it seeth him not, John 14. 17. They

do not understand, but yet they are moved at the Presence of him in whom they imagine it dwells? His Flesh is the same with theirs, and yet they narrowly look on and consider him. But if they had a spiritual Eye, or if they had an inward Sense to perceive somewhat of the same Nature within themselves, they would be much more over-awed with that: And yet they would be inexpressibly more moved with the Presence of the God of the Spirits of all Flesh As Wax melteth before the Fire, so let the Wicked perish at the Presence of God, Psal. 68. 2. which will be really fulfilled when him∣self shall bow the Heavens and come down. Even now at the Manifestation of the Spirit of God, Satan and his Legions do fly and disap∣pear. The Devils believe and tremble; for they more quickly discern and fear than Peo∣ple in the Flesh; and being more apprehensive of God's Power, and also being conscious that they are liable to it, they either make haste to get away, or they lie under a more grievons Terror and Apprehension thereof against the Time it shall be executed upon them. The Lord rideth upon a swift Cloud, and shall come in∣to Egypt, and the Idols shall be moved at his Pre∣sence, Isa. 19. 1. As Light doth dispel Dark∣ness, one Beam or Ray of the Sun drives it away when it overspreads the Face of the whole Earth: So it is of the spiritual Light and of the spiritual Darkness; where the spi∣ritual Light doth appear and shoot it self

forth, it makes all Ignorance and Error to ut∣terly vanish away.

The Father of Lights doth sometimes send out a Ray and Communication of his own Nature. O send out thy Light and thy Truth, Psal. 43. 3. Thou that dwellest between the Cheru∣bims shine forth, Psal. 80. 1. He now and then appears a little more, and makes a Discovery of himself. The God of all things, who hid∣eth himself (if I may so express it) behind the Skreen of his Creatures, doth look out a little. Who hath put a Vail on his Face, he doth a little draw it aside. Who hath dark Waters and thick Clouds to cover him, yet he looks out from behind the Pillar; and as he troubled the Egyptians of old, so doth he even now seem to disturb the Inhabitants of the Earth; for so they are disturbed when they have any Apprehension or spiritual Sight of him. And therefore they avoid it and they shut their Eyes against him. Lord, when thy Hand is lifted up they will not see, but they shall see, Isa. 26. 11. As long as they can refuse the Know∣ledge of God, they will refuse it: As long as they can resist and despise his Righteousness and Truth, they will do so: But at length there shall such an abundant Measure thereof be poured down, that they shall both know and consider, tremble and be astonished do whatever they can.

By the Help of God one of his Saints (who is the same with others) shall put an hundred

to Flight, and Ten shall chase a Thousand. And this shall not be done by Sword or Spear, by outward Strength or Power of the Hands, but with the weakest Member and lightest thing in Man, viz. It shall be done by the Tongue and by the Breath of his Lips. And he shall smite the Earth with the Rod of his Mouth, and with the Breath of his Lips shall he slay the Wicked, Isa. 11. 4. The Lord shall put Words into their Mouth that the Ears which hear thereof shall tingle: And though they are backward to hear, yet he shall cause them to hear. Now Words are vain, light, and the Sound of them soon passeth away: They may be slighted off when they come from a weak and helpless Man: For, doth he talk of great things who is little and contemptible himself? Doth he speak of Power and Might, who is but Flesh, a feeble Creature, and like a Reed shaken with the Wind? Doth he preach of Rewards and Punishments in whose Power it is not either to do good or hurt? For the utmost is a slight Pleasure or little Inconvenience. Doth he talk of Kingdoms, Glory and Riches, when per∣haps himself is abject, vile and poor? Many such like things might be objected against us if we came in our own Name, or if we did pro∣mise them by our own Merit, Excellency and Power. But seeing we come in the Name of the Lord who hath created and ordained all things; who will do nothing, but he will re∣veal it to his Servants, the Prophets. What∣ever

his eternal Purpose and Decree is concer∣ning Mankind, he will some way make it known unto them, by acquainting it to some who are to publish it unto others. He hath so ordered that it might be known. They do all hear the Rumour and they might seek after, Acts 15. 17. and find it.

Salvation and the good things of God are forced upon none. They may be brought near∣er and pressed more urgently upon some than upon others, yet still there is Liberty of Refu∣sal. Again, they are not so far off from any, but they may come near and receive them; and to whom it is most inculcated and offered, yet it is not all done to their Hand. For Trial is had whether they will seek yet further. There must be somewhat of Man's own Act and wil∣ling.

God doth manifest himself to be friendly and loving unto us, by that constant Provision of temporal Mercies, and also by doing all that lies on his Part for spiritual good things. It is expected what we will do reciprocally as to what he doth require of us. Saith the Son of God, As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you. Continue ye in my Love. If ye keep my Commandments, ye shall abide in my Love, even as I have kept my Father's Commandments and abide in his Love, John 15. 9, 10. Here we have Assurance of the divine Favour to us; and we are instructed how we may continue and ex∣press our good Will towards him, viz. by

keeping his Commandments. God is no Re∣specter of Persons; but whosoever of the Chil∣dren of Men doth this, he is accepted with him. Whosoever doth the Works of Abraham, he is a Friend of God, as Abraham was, James 2. 23. which Word, Friend, imports that we do a thing presently and readily at his requiring. By much Importunity we we may get a Kind∣ness from a common Neighbour; which he will do not out of Affection and Esteem to∣wards us, but to be freed from the Trouble which we give him by our Importunity. But where is real Love and Friendship, there is con∣stant Readiness to do mutual Offices even be∣fore the other asks, or upon the least Intima∣tion that such a thing would be acceptable un∣to him.

Now to apply the Case as it stands between God and Mankind. As soon as they hear of me, they shall obey me, Psal. 18. 44. Nothing can be more just and reasonable than that he should require Obedience of his Creatures. Is he not more to all of them and to each singly than one Man is to another? He is infinitely more kind than Father or Mother, Husband, Friend or Brother; for even he ordained these Relati∣ons, and stirs up, (what he first put in) those Bowels of Mercy and Compassion one to ano∣ther. Of God are all things, and now he or∣dereth them as it pleaseth him: So he is the Author of all good we ever received; and as he made, he doth now sustain us, and loadeth

us with Benefits. May he not expect something from us, even all that we can render unto him: To acknowledge him in all things and to walk always in the Way he shews unto us, and to observe those Commandments he gives us. Lord! How strange is it, that a Creature should make any Dispute or Controversie con∣cerning it? As we live by him, so it is meet we should live as he would have us: Both the Members of Body and Faculties of Soul should do according as he made and designed them. Therefore glorifie God in your Body and in your Spirit which are God's, 1 Cor. 6. 20. The Pot∣ter makes Vessels to serve for those Uses he in∣tended them; and other Artificers, which frame moving Instruments, make them turn or go as they please. Hath not the Lord the same Power and Understanding, who hath given such Skill and Capacity to others. And he who fashioned every Part of us might also have ordained that all within us should necessa∣rily have so moved according to his Command and Will, as the Pulse continually beats to keep Life and Motion. Who formed the Heart to turn either way, to Good or Evil, he might have determined it only to the first; who ena∣bled us to think this or that, he might have confined us to good only; and he might have kept out from thence Wickedness and Vanity, all one as we now remain ignorant of many hidden and unsearchable things.

If we had a right Knowledge of God we might discern how he is the Creator of us and of all things; who made my single Person, he hath made Millions of the same Sort: And who created Mankind, he hath also Ten Thousand times ten Thousand several Sorts of Creatures both living and inanimate, all which are for his own Glory and to minister unto him. Who hath called the Generations from the Beginning, Isa. 41. 4. and ordained them to succeed one ano∣ther after that Manner as we see they now do. And shall a single Atom, an individual Dust and Ashes refuse one Moment to comply with his Will? Nay, if several do so besides, yet it is thine and the other's single Disobedience, which make up and encourage the Corruption of many. But let their Number be never so great, they are but as a Swarm of Flies and Lo∣custs: And if they do mutter forth hard Speeches or commit ungodly Deeds, it is but in very little and sudden Acts. And what is all this Sin and Wickedness to the whole World of Creatures which declare the Glory of God, and shew forth all his Praise? What are the refractory and stubborn Worms of the Earth to those Armies of Heaven which fulfil all the Pleasure of the Almighty? When he commands the Children of Men to do after this or that manner, they go on frowardly in the Way of their Heart, yet his Throne is for ever established above the Circuit of Heaven; and there he sits governing the World; and for

ought we know a Thousand others. God exer∣cises the supream and alone Authority over all. Who maketh his Angels Spirits, and his Ministers a flaming Fire. The Spirits are for the sudden and quick Dispatch of what he would have done, and for the effectual Performance of the same. And the flaming Fire is to burn up and consume all that lets or hinders; and so make way for his Purpose: He hath already fixed and ordained things in their appointed Cour∣ses and Places: He hath appointed those seve∣ral Motions and Bounds: He hath sent forth his Word and given a Law. He garnished out the Heavens by his Wisdom, and laid out the Foundations of the Earth by his Understand∣ing: And we see it abideth according to his Ordinance; for all things serve him.

Even Man doth all things which he is neces∣sarily obliged unto; nay, which he could re∣frain from, but with some visible Inconvenien∣cy. Man goeth forth to his Work and to his Labour until the Evening. Now there is as much Difficulty in that bodily Service as in the other Duty required of him by God, and yet he readily doth that, though it takes up more of his Strength and Time. The utmost of bo∣dily Labour is for Meat, Drink and Raiment. Which God could have provided him without his own Labour, as he doth for the Ravens and Fowls of the Air. But now it is so ordered, to see if Man will labour for Food and Rai∣ment, and there he doth. Wherefore do ye

spend Money for that which is not Bread, and la∣bour for that which satisfieth not, Isa. 55. 2. The Hand withereth, the Work ceaseth, it is all determined within the several Days, both the Meat and Labour thereof. The first perish∣eth in the Mouth and is utterly consumed in the Draught; the other is tiresome and not very material afterwards. The Wages are mean and satisfie not. But now God hath promised a Gift and Reward, which is eternal Life and Blessedness; And this is to be had upon fore∣going Conditions; which may be performed by the Soul, as the Bodily Service is done by the outward Members. Incline your Ear and come unto me. Hear and your Soul shall live, and I will make an everlasting Covenant with you, even the sure Mercies of David, Isa. 55. 3. Here God sends forth an Invitation and Command, with the utmost Assurance of fulfilling the same. It is observable how the Preface runs, Incline your Ear and come unto me: Hear and your Soul shall live. He addresseth to the first Stubbornness and Aversation in Man, to get him to hear the Voice and Proposals of his Maker, for he doth send forth so many gracious Words and pressing Arguments, that whosoever doth at∣tend to them, he must be perswaded. Our God can give alike and greater Reasons why all Mankind should serve him all the Days they live here upon Earth, as they do this or that for one another, or as they have Imaginations to walk in their own Ways.

God is not a Man that he should Lye, Numb. 23. 9. as Courtiers and great Personages, very free in Promises, but slack in Performances. But he doth give the greatest satisfaction, upon which whoso considers, he may build the strongest Assurance that he shall receive greater and more certain things by keeping close and stedfast to his Covenant than by turning aside from it. From the Intention and sincere De∣sire of our Soul, especially when we seek for all Knowledge and Direction by the Word and Prayer, We may as surely conclude, as if God spake openly unto us out of a Cloud, or from the Battlements of Heaven. The consideration of things to come may at all times weigh down the Thoughts and Temptation of the present. The Eye may be continually fixed on the Re∣compence of Reward, and so disdain and refuse the sudden Pleasures of Sin, or the little pro∣fit of Transgression. Such things may be for ever kept in the Imagination of the Hearts of People, that they shall seldom or never utter∣ly turn aside from God's Commandments, and which shall overcome the Temptations of Sa∣tan, the World, the Lusts of the Flesh, the Desires of the Mind, or the Dictates of Pride, Obstinacy and Frowardness. What doth esta∣blish and confirm those who are already there∣in, will also bring others in the Right Way. God is able to bring those home who at pre∣sent are estranged from him, by the same Me∣thod which others have been before. He can

use and make known the same Perswasion, wherewith others are actually perswaded, and they yield to take upon them the Yoke of his Son. He knows all the Hearts of the Children of Men, every single Thought afar off, each particular moving and inclination. He under∣standeth all their Works, and seeth all their Ways. As also he is not ignorant of all the Devices of the Enemy, To beat and keep them off from his Knowledge and Obedience. So that he can take away what lets and hinders, or over-rules it: And that which makes for Good, he can further and compleat the same. I have seen his ways, and will heal him, Isa. 57. 18. who perceives all the Wandrings, can also lead him back. Who doth behold all the stumblings in Darkness. He can suddenly bring Light into the Soul, that she may see her way. Who doth clearly discover all the imaginations of Evil, He can also presently scatter and de∣feat them. If there be any Thoughts of Good, any wishes and desires towards it; he can cherish them up into acts and habits of doing well. God, who maketh to Will, can also make to Do in his good Pleasure, and in his own Order, though this is commonly after the other. He brings near that which was afar off, and inclines what before was averse and un∣willing. Who can understand, and also he doth know those close actings and contrivances, the secret and hidden things of the Heart, those reserved and innermost Thoughts, the

Bottom Imaginations (if I may so express it) or what yet lies under Ground, or is covered over in the inward Man: The deceitful Wind∣ings and Turnings are more than can be reck∣oned up. We cannot fathom and compre∣hend all that lies in our own Heart, much less in others. But thou, O Lord, knowest all. I the Lord search the Heart and try the Reins, to see and discover if there is any thing more. So he, who knows all things, can also apply things accordingly. He can adapt his Grace unto their Corruption, his Truth unto their Error, and his Mercy to all their former Sins. He hath a Balm to all their Sores, for who doth perfectly understand the Nature of that, and also the Remedy, there he can recover whom he will. Now God doth know through∣ly the Nature of every thing which he hath made. I have seen his Ways and will heal him: I will lead him also and restore Comforts to him and his Mourners, Isa. 57. 18.

God doth not things suddenly; for our Faith and Waiting are to be exercised in the mean while; and therefore his gracious Promises are commonly future, what he doth phrase Thoughts of Good, even to give an expected End. Yet in the mean while he requires that we prepare and be found ready. To be as those that wait for the coming of the Bridegroom, that when he comes we may open to him immediately, Luke 12. 36. Agreeable hereunto is the Pra∣ctice and Example of those of old. The Disci∣ples

all went as soon as ever they were called, and left their worldly Business. So did the Labourers in the Vineyard go as soon as they were severally hired. Those converted to the Christian Faith believed and lived according∣ly the first or second Time after they had heard it preached unto them. So when Paul was cal∣led forth; he conferred not with Flesh and Blood, he had nothing to do with carnal Con∣siderations or worldly Inducements, no pre∣sent Motive nor yet a like Danger and Incon∣venience did hinder or excuse with him, but he immediately went to Jerusalem. Undoubted∣ly all these did for the best and God was well pleased with them. He did accept and reward them more than those who seek out for Excuse and Delay, or such who first refuse to hear his Gracious call; or if they do at any Time hear or it is made known unto them, yet they will not yield unto it.

The Word of Exhortation stands continual∣ly for all People both young and old to hear and read it. The Spirit and the Bridegroom say always, come, There is one knocking at the Door of their Hearts for Admission, God is ready at all Times to set up his Kingdom within us, his Law is already written in our Heart and inward Parts. He sends his Pro∣phets rising up early and sitting down late. Who being dead, speak yet unto us in their Writings. There are constant Dictates of Mind to serve and obey our Maker. There

are Examples of those who do it in our Age and Circumstances of Life. There is hardly a Chapter or Verse throughout the whole Bible, but some way or other calls and stirs us up. The Scripture is opened and alledged. The Word preached in the several Congregations throughout our Land, and in all the Nations of the World are a Sermon to us also: For we are the same Creatures and stand in the ve∣ry same Relation to the great God over all, as those several Persons who hear such and such Truths with their outward Ears. We might also know and hear more than we do; and those who hear and understand are to declare it unto us, to acquaint their Neighbours and Kinsfolks, and they to others: So that the Word of God might dwell richly and have free Passage among us.

There is a sufficient Call and Warning to all People in their several Generations and Ages of Life, God now commandeth all Men every where to repent, because he hath appointed a Day in the which he will judge the World in Righteousness by that Man whom he hath ordained, whereof he hath given Assurance unto all Men in that he hath rais∣ed him from the Dead, Acts 17. 31. As every one knows Christ to be a Saviour, so there is the same Notice conveyed that he is to be our Judge: And as God shall bring every secret thing into Judgment, all the Actions of our Lives, for each single Day will be called to ac∣count: So it will be demanded why such and

such did not come when they were called, as they sensibly knew by a powerful Conviction over their Spirits, when it was inculcated over and over, to Day if ye will hear his Voice har∣den not your Heart. When they might have considered more and more, and themselves did find that the more they did consider, the more they were pressed instantly to close with Christ; and therefore they did put off consi∣dering their Wayes. They might at such an Opportunity have heard God's Word (which would have urged them to have turned from their evil Ways, and therefore they would not attend to them. They might at such a Day and by such Means have learned the Knowledge and Fear of the Lord, but they would not. His Statutes were laid before them, but they would not let the Ears hear which were made to hear; nor the Eyes see which were ordained for that End. And further, when the Thoughts thereof did recur to the Mind, they would put them far away. When God rises up and enters into Judgment, how shall Men answer for such things?

And whosoever now looketh upon or hears what is written in these Lines, and he is con∣vinced of the Truth and Sincerity of them, but if he should go away and not comply with the Purport thereof, or be willingly ignorant, or take no notice for fear he should be brought over unto God more suddenly than he other∣wise intended, how will he give account to the

Judge of all Men for the same? Even to that God who knows all his Thoughts and Imagina∣tions concerning this or any other matter, who will reprove and set the things he hath done in order before him; even from the Time he had the Beginning of the Knowledge of Good and Evil unto the Day of his Death?

God knows all things, but we know not as God knoweth; and therefore we are so puzzled and distracted in things pertaining to him. He seeth all things in Heaven and Earth and under the Earth at one Sight, and knoweth all things to the utmost as they are known. But we now see one thing and then another, in order and Succession of Time, as he shews them unto us. Those Things which are more hidden and invisi∣ble, he reveals them by his Word and Spirit; and still we know nothing perfectly and compre∣hensively. And it may be all confined to things pertaining to us Men, which is not the Ten Thousandth Part of the things to be known, nor yet one Half of what doth immediately re∣late unto and concern us. The Sum and Com∣prehension of all is to know God and his Law, our Duty to him in each particular, and when we do vary from it.

It may be observed that the whole Scripture (which is called the Lord's Book) may be all reduced to this. Besides the natural imprinted Knowledge, God is there more discoverd to us, by the History of the Creation of the World, his Manifestations unto his Servants

that worshipped and feared him, his wonder∣ful Works that he did from Time to Time, the Descriptions given of him in sundry Pla∣ces, and also the Commandments enjoyned to the Sons of Men. The Law was given by Moses unto which he added much Exhortation to the Observance thereof: So did David and the Prophets, whose Writings were to press People unto Obedience and a Reproof of Transgression. Which last was an orderly Declaration of Matter of Fact and according to Truth how People did turn aside from the Commandments delivered unto them. It was a Telling of or Declaration unto the House of Jacob their Sins and Transgressions. Which was expressed in general or more particular Terms; but yet so plainly that every Offen∣der might understand himself was spoken of and called upon for to amend his Doings.

There is a strong Sense and Obligation up∣on the Heart of Man to keep the Law of his Creator; and he is sensible of as much every Time he is put in Remembrance thereof. As on the other hand, he is troubled with Shame, Regret and Condemnation when he thinks of, and more especially when he is told of his Sin and Error. This proceeds from the Consci∣ousness of having offended God, and from the Fear of his Anger and Judgment.

A secret Thought doth arise from Ignorance or Unbelief, that either God doth not see or not take notice of such evil Deeds and will not

require for them: But such an one brings their Sin to Remembrance and makes it recorded before God; which otherwise might fall to the Ground and be forgotten by him. Hence hath arose that Hatred and unkind Usage to the Pro∣phets, Ministers and Servants of God for speak∣ing of and reproving the People of their seve∣ral Generations of their Sin and Disobedience. This alone did put some Check and Stop to Transgression, and so the less was committed, and consequently there was less to account for before God. But in those Ages when all Flesh had corrupted its Way upon Earth, and there was none to oppose the Torrent of Iniquity; yet God, who sits above, both saw and knew the whole Course of Transgression, all one as if Ten Thousand of his Saints did cry aloud against it. This will be clearly manifested at the Day of Judgment, when God will disclose and make known the several Steps and De∣grees of Irreligion and Wickedness, both of Generations and single Persons, of Countries and Families, whereof we knew and heard no∣thing at all. When the Lord shall write and rehearse up all things as they were done from the Beginning of the World. The Sin of Ju∣dah is written with a Pen of Iron, and graven with the Point of a Diamond; and so it re∣mains before God although no Man ever spoke thereof by Word of Mouth, or committed it to Ink and Paper. It may be, that the seve∣ral Acts are willingly forgotten by the Persons

who committed the same, but God will re∣member them to the impenitent and hard of Heart; and he will renew the Memory of them to the Sinner's own Mind and Consci∣ence. As the Sinner doth now act and conti∣nue in the same, he doth treasure up unto him∣self Wrath against the Day of Wrath, and Revelation of the righteous Judgment of God, who will render unto every Man according to his Deeds, Rom. 2. 5, 6. whether good or evil, as is expressed in the following Verses.

Here again it appears, that the several Acti∣ons of Life will come into judgment and Retri∣bution shall be made to the Person according∣ly. So that in how many things he doth well he will be accepted, and himself would have notice taken thereof. If he sin, that also lies at the Door: Which will pass either into Ex∣amination and Condemnation, or the utmost to be hoped thereof is Pardon and Forgiveness, that God would not remember, or not impute it. But this is certain, for the Scripture affirms positively thereof, that many shall be actually punished for the same. For, Those that have done Iniquity shall be cast into a Furnace of Fire, Mat. 13. 41, 42. and They that have done evil shall arise unto the Resurrection of Damnation, John 5. 29. yet of those who escape by Repen∣tance, they certainly suffer this Loss. It would be better for them throughout all Eternity if they had never committed such Acts of Sin Be∣sides, that the Time wherein they committed

Iniquity might have been spent in well-doing; and so they are deprived of the Recompence they might have had for that. Though a Sin∣ner do evil an hundred Times and his Days be prolonged, yet it shall be well with them that fear the Lord, that fear before him. Both Manner of Ways will come into account, and they will have a different End. It will be cer∣tainly better for them who lived in Obedience and Holiness in those Days of their Flesh, wherein others did, and themselves might have lived in Sin and Wickedness. That Son who said to his Father, Lo, these many Years do I serve thee; neither transgressed I at any time thy Commandment, his Father answered him, Son, Thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine, Luk. 15. 29, 31. which was a larger and much bet∣ter Portion and Provision than what was be∣fore, or afterwards given unto the prodigal and disobedient Son. Again, though a Sinner should come to Repentance, yet the sooner he doth, it will be certainly better for him; be∣cause he will be more sure of God's Favour and Acceptation; and also he will sooner bring forth Fruits meet for Repentance, and make a Way for his own Reward; whereas All his former Days were consumed in Vanity and Trouble, Psal. 78. 33, They will not turn to good Ac∣count; neither doth he desire that they should come into Judgment; for it will stand in no stead and turn to no Benefit unto him; but en∣crease the Anguish and Bitterness of Soul, that

he did not in those Days serve the Lord in Righteousness, Holiness and doing good. For these Works would follow him, when the other things are absolutely perished, and he wishes that he had never done them.

Here is a real Argument not to continue in Sin one Moment longer; for notwithstanding the present Pleasure and Conveniency, here∣by he misses of so much more Happiness and Advantage. Again, he should not a Minute longer neglect Obedience and doing good, for he loses so much of a full Reward.

Thus much is signified from the Words, of the righteous Judgment of God who will render to every one according to his Deeds. And so it is written, Blessed are ye when Men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely for my sake: rejoyce and be ex∣ceeding glad, for great is your Reward in Heaven, Mat. 5. 11, 12, For the Son of Man shall come in the Glory of his Father with his Angels, and then he shall reward every Man according to his Works, Mat. 16. 27. And every Man shall receive his own Reward, according to his own Labour, 1 Cor. 3. 8. Wo unto their Soul for they have rewarded Evil unto themselves. Say ye to the Righteous that it shall be well with him, For they shall eat the Fruit of their Doings. Wo unto the wicked, it shall be ill with him: For the Reward of his Hands shall be given him, Isa. 3. 9, 10, 11. According to their Deeds, accordingly he will repay, Fury to his Ad∣versaries, Recompence to his Enemies, to the Islands

he will repay Recompence, Isa. 59. 18. The great God that formed all things, both rewardeth the Fool and rewardeth Transgressors, Prov. 26. 10. As thou hast done, it shall be done unto thee, thy Reward shall return upon thine own Head, Obad. 15. Receiving in themselves that Recompence of their Errour that was meet, Rom. 1. 27. Like as the Lord of Host thought to do unto us according to our Ways and according to our Doings, so hath he dealt with us, Zech. 1. 6. And all the Churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the Reins and Hearts: And I will give unto every one of you according to your Works, Rev. 2. 13. There are sundry other like Places in Scripture, which the more they are considered and looked into, they do the more demonstate the present Do∣ctrine, how that the future Retribution and Recompence shall be proportioned and adju∣sted according to the Deeds of Men, as it will be yet more clearly seen at the Revelation of the righteous Judgment of God. It shall be openly disclosed and shewed unto every one. Though it hath been hitherto hidden from some because they would not search the Scrip∣tures, for there they might have found it so, and accordingly have prepared to have given up their Accounts. The good may be hence quickned to do more, to take hold of every Opportunity, to lay up a greater Foun∣dation against the Time to come, to seek and do the Work of the Lord diligently, and to improve every Talent to the utmost: And the

evil might presently have ceased to do wick∣edly, turn and be more zealous in the other Way.

Faith apprehends so of things future, as Me∣mory and Recollection is to the past. Herein appears the Excellency of the Understanding and reasonable Soul, that she sees things afar off and remembers those behind. But those things here are scarce worth our Remem∣brance; but what things we are further told of, they are all Wonder and Astonishment; be∣cause they are so exceeding great and endur∣ing: Which will fill the Soul though opened wide and to the utmost, and satisfie every Wish and Desire, and these things are always to re∣main. When these things shall be present before us, we shall admire and be vexed within our selves that we did not more towards the ob∣taining them. Even thus it will be of those who considered and did most that usually Men do. Our Fathers received the Promises and saw them afar off, they now stand more abun∣dantly confirmed unto us, being so indubitably made known that we are more fully perswaded of them, and do embrace them. So the Exhor∣tation runs yet more forcible, to cleanse our selves from all Filthiness of Flesh and Spirit, perfecting Holiness in the Fear of God, and to do all things that we may be found accepted of him at the last Day.

Even thus much we may discern at present, that the Lord sitteth above all his Creatures.

He hath revealed how we the Inhabitants of the Earth are to behave our selves towards him. He hath prepared his Seat for Judgment and his Kingdom ruleth over all, neither is any Creature that is not manifest in his Sight: But all things are naked and opened unto the Eyes of him with whom we have to do. We cannot know him as he knoweth us, for he seeth us and all our Ways clearly; but we now see thro' a Glass darkly. And as we are mere Creatures, who have nothing but what we have received, so we know nothing but what he first made known and revealed unto us.

Our Saviour abode on the Earth Forty Days after his Passion on the Cross and Resurrecti∣on from the Grave, speaking of the things per∣taining to the Kingdom of God, Acts 1. 3. ve∣ry few of which are recorded. And though many things are written which he made known in the Course of. his Ministry, yet the beloved Disciple John saith, Many other things truly did Jesus in the Presence of his Disciples, which are not written in this Book. John 20. 30. So before his coming into the World God discovered his Will by Prophets, and holy Men spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. And there have been since further Manifestations of divine Knowledge and Truth: And yet still the Skies will be more opened and Righteousness shall be poured down. Drop down ye Heavens from above and let the Skies pour down Righteousness: Let the Earth open, and let them bring forth Sal∣vation,

and let Righteousness spring up together, I the Lord have created it, Isa. 45. 8. He shall come down like Rain upon the mowen Grass, as Showers that water the Earth, Psal. 72. 6. Truth shall spring out of the Eorth, Psal. 85. 11. Both as to the Element it self, and also as to the Inhabi∣tants thereof, Let the People praise thee, O God, let all the People praise thee. Then shall the Earth yield her Increase, and God, even our own God shall bless us, Psal. 67. 5, 6. He shall make known those Arts and Means that the Earth shall yield her Increase so abundantly, that there shall be no hungry and empty Soul; but there shall be more than sufficient for every Creature whatever. He shall give such a plentiful Fleece on the Sheep, and may discover those other Ways for cloathing as to cover all the naked in our Land. Bring ye all the Tithes into the Store-House, that there may be Meat in mine House, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of Hosts, If I will not open the Windows of Heaven, and pour ye out a Blessing that there shall not be room enough to receive it, Mal. 3. 10. Mankind hath been hi∣therto proved, wihther they will obey and trust in their God. The poor hath been a long while suffered among them to see whether they will will provide for and do them good; and they have not yet been so obedient and trusted un∣to him as they should. But let them once do so, let all the People praise him, and then prove him whether he will not do those great things for us: Whether he will not deal yet more

bountifully even in those things, for the sake of which People now transgress against him. The Earth is the Lord's and the Fulness thereof, Psal. 24. 1. The Silver is mine, and the Gold is mine, saith the Lord of Hosts, Hag. 2. 8. so he can disclose it whensoever he will, perhaps more than hath been yet seen and talked of. And I will give thee the Treasures of Darkness, and hidden Riches of secret Places, Isa. 45. 3. He can shew us where are the several rich Mines, and some way bring to our Knowledge whatever Worth and Excellency lies hid at present in the Bowels of the Earth. So there may be suf∣ficient, yea and abundance for all. And there may be such exceeding Plenty, even of the for∣merly beloved Mammon, that they shall even loath and not esteem it, because there is no such intrinsick Goodness in it as was supposed. And things will be as readily done without, as heretofore they were greedy and eager after it. The Nature and End of every thing relating to us shall be perfectly understood, and how they conduce to our real Good and Happiness. As things shall be fully made known which tend to the Use, Well-being and Delight of the Bo∣dy; so the same will be discerned concerning the Soul. The hidden Man of the Heart will come forth, and as that even now doth clear∣ly appear in the Sight of God, so it will be yet more manifested to our View, that we may al∣so know what is in Man as we see his outward Face. The Thoughts of many Hearts shall be

revealed, so we may as evidently perceive them, as we behold the working of their Hands, or their goings up and down upon bodily Feet.

The Lord saith, behold, all Souls are mine, Ezek. 18. 4. He challengeth a peculiar Property in them; and yet he hath sent forth a peremptory De∣cree, The Soul that sinneth it shall die. The Soul hath a Knowledge of this which cannot be sha∣ken off; so imprinted, that though it may be somewhat defaced, yet it cannot be worn out. The Desire and Tendency riseth up to some∣what which we see not, but yet know, believe and hear of. There is a Consciousness of Duty to one above, all one as the Servant hath to his Master; and as there do arise Joy and Satisfa∣ction, when his Duty is rightly performed, so there is Regret and Condemnation when it is neglected. There must be some Thought or a stupid Forgetfulness; and even for that there is some Imagination or secret Excuse. But if that is distrusted, as it may; for God will not allow of any Dispensation from not serving him, and there cannot be any thing more need∣ful to a Man or Woman, than how to secure his or her own eternal Welfare: So Negligence is the certain Way to miscarry, and so sink into eternal and remediless Misery. And there∣upon the Soul is stirred to arise up and be do∣ing. She must forecast and look out how to secure her self in this most important Concern.

And when she is put upon thinking and seek∣ing, there is one above who doth see and con∣sider

all her Motions. Who offers to assist and guide her; who causes her to know the Diffe∣rence between Thought and Imagination. The first apprehends a thing really as it is; but the other is hood-wink'd by Delusion and Appear∣ance, and conceives things otherwise than they are. This imagines too much in earthly things, and too little in heavenly.

In all the Circle and Amusement of Mind, there is one who would bring us out. In all the Ignorance and Perplexity of Soul, we might at length come to Knowledge and Assurance. As we are confounded and distracted in the things below, we might lift up our Ears and hearken unto him that now speaketh from Hea∣ven, This is Life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent, John 17. 3. The same God who gave us a Being here, and lent us a short Time on Earth, hath prepared and ordained the other also, and told us what we may do that we may lay hold of it. All our Knowledge is to be derived from this Beginning, from the Creator who is most worthy, we may descend down to the Crea∣tures. And because many things hinder, darken and obscure this Knowledge, we are therefore to take heed of and avoid them. Casting down Imaginations and every high thing that exalteth it self against the Knowledge of God, and bringing into Captivity every Thought to the Oebdience of Christ, 2 Cor. 10. 5. God and Christ discern∣eth every Thought and Imagination as plainly

as if they were wrote upon Tables of Stone; and when these Imaginations are brought forth and spread before the Faces of those who con∣ceive them, they fall of themselves, and eve-Thought submits to the Obedience of Christ, as the former Disobedience is laid open and the Unreasonableness thereof is shewed.

What is that high thing which exalteth it self against the Knowledge of God? If it be truly examined it will be brought low. Can any thing be higher than the most high? Or great∣er than him who made and comprehendeth all things? Yet there doth lie in the Heart of Man a most absurd, strange and false Imagina∣tion, that it as it were a condescending to him to know and seek after his Maker. The wicked through the Pride of his Countenance will not seek af∣ter God, Psal. 10. 4. He is already high and ex∣alted in his own Esteem, and he would not lose ought from that; but if he should once have a true Understanding and spiritual Light of God, he would Repent and abhor himself in Dust and Ashes, Job. 42. 5, 6. It would utterly take off from the Conceit of his own Excellency. God is most worthy of our Knowledge, so of Honour, Glory and Praise; for he hath crea∣ted all things, and for his Pleasure they are and were created. Also our selves were made by him, and endued by him with Power and Capacity to know even inferiour things; and by them we should ascend up to him who is all in all. If any thing is worth knowing, he doth

infinitely exceed even in that Respect, for which such a thing is to be known. And he further contains in himself those innumerable Excellencies and Perfections, a little Part and Shadow whereof is scattered up and down in the several Creatures. The more we know God, the less we esteem of all other things; for they come so exceeding short of his ex∣ceeding Greatness and Glory that in Compa∣rison of him they are meer Vanity and less than nothing. Indeed those who are alienated from the Life of God, who have no Sense nor Apprehension of him, may be like those in a low Dungeon, or a dark Room, where is no Beam of Light; and such may esteem the shin∣ing of a Glow-worm or the dim burning of a Candle before the Sun which they never saw. And so are all the fantastick Apprehensions or Conceits of the things before us, separated from Faith and the Knowledge of God. Then he may think himself his own, the chiefest and most lovely in the lower Creation. But if God doth once shew himself, then all those former Imaginations presently vanish away. If the natural and ungodly Man can but conceive in his Mind concerning the high and lofty one who inhabiteth Eternity. Heaven is his Throne and the Earth his Footstool, let it be asked, what was it that ever any Man fancied to be higher and greater than this? If the natural Man can but discern the Works of God, how that in Wisdom he made them all, and form∣ed

also Man with a reasoning and contriving Faculty, how that he established that Order and Connexion of things which is throughout the World and each Part thereof. How can any Soul conclude any thing pertaining to God to be Foolishness, only because himself doth not clearly apprehend it, when in every thing which he discerns somewhat more, there also he sees great Wisdom and Knowledge. Shall Mortal be more wise than his Maker? Who gave him and all the Generations of Mankind the Knowledge of whatever they seem to know. If all those Thoughts of Heart and Conceits of Mind, which have been entertained and che∣rished in the Hearts of the several Sons and Daughters of Adam were brought forth, as they shall be one Day when God shall evident∣ly display himself with the very Reality and Truth of things, they will be vastly different one from the other.

Out of Sion the Perfection of Beauty, God, hath shined, Psal. 50. 2. When he makes but a small Appearance of himself and we know but in Part, yet then he may be discerned to be won∣derfully great and glorious, what will he be when he shall unfold himself wholly and then we shall know, even also as we are known? We shall know God as he now knoweth us, and we know one another. Behold, now we are the Sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be; but we know than when he shall appear, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is, 1 John 3. 2.

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We now hear of the Name of God, which is great, wonderful and holy: That is to the outward Ear; but then is a Conception of him in the Mind, and our Eyes are to publish forth his Name. We see with our very Eyes his Works and the things which his Hand hath made, and by the Dimension of them we may ascribe Greatness unto our God. He is the same still, who abides of old, from everlasting to everlasting. He is nothing the more for being published, nor yet greater for our most ample and large Expressions concerning him which possibly can be spoken. Even the holy Men of old have had diminutive and little Concepti∣ons of him; which have increased yet higher according as more Revelation came into the World, as appears from the Order and Suc∣cession of Scripture. They were surprized and amazed at the Presence of his Angel. And what is one of them to Thousands of Angels? Or what are they to the Lord of all which hath ten thousand Times ten thousand ministring Spirits before him. David saith, The Lord is a great God, and a great King above all Gods, Psal. 95. 3. which Gods may be the Princes of the Earth or Idols. Jeremiah witnesseth, Among all the wise Men of the Nations, and in all their Kingdoms, there is none like unto thee, Jer. 10. 7. The Prophet, in Isa. 40. declares somewhat more, and so doth Daniel in his seventh Chap∣ter. And yet all these come exceeding short of his true Majesty and Greatness. It being

such as Eye hath not seen, nor Ear heard, nor entred into the Heart of Man to declare God as he is. I am that I am. He is known to him∣self and by his Name, I AM. His only begot∣ten Son, who is the eternal WORD, hath de∣clared him: And also he did before reveal himself by his Spirit, but it was by condescen∣ding unto and helping our Infirmities: And therefore the Spirit useth such Expressions as we can receive, but withal giveth us to under∣stand that the things of God are unutterable; for the Tongue cannot speak forth that which our finite. Understandings cannot apprehend, because it is infinite and incomprehensible.

But yet so far as we know and apprehend we ought to set forth the same; to the intent that our Children may shew forth the same unto their Children, and to those which are yet un∣born. And God may so enlarge their Hearts that they may receive yet further Knowledge of him; what they had from their Forefathers, may grow up yet higher. Obedience is the Follower of Knowledge. And they that know thy Name, will put their Trust in thee; for thou Lord, hast not forsaken them tbat seek thee, Psal. 9. 10. and so it is of all other Duties; and if we may rely on God as to the past, where he doth not assist much further than just to perform our Duties, and that also through Difficulty and Temptation to exercise our Trust and Dependance on him much more may we do the same as to the future, when we verily know

and are assured that he is a Rewarder of them that diligently seek him. The things prepared for those that wait for him are described to be more and greater than Eye hath seen, Ear hath heard, or hath entred into the Heart of Man, so that the greater Apprehension and more full Assurance we have of these things, we also are the more quickned and stirred up to do what∣ever our God requires of us in the mean while.

Saith David, I will run the way of thy Com∣mandments when thou shalt enlarge my Heart, Psal. 119. 32. which denotes Freedom and Speed.

I will, that is his own Act. Run, doth shut out all Delay and putting it off, for it present∣ly begins and pursues it with Strength and Vi∣gour. The Word Enlarge, doth also signifie in the Original to perswade. God shall enlarge (in the Margent it is perswade) Japheth, Gen. 4. 27. for the Apprehension of those great things do incline and weigh down the Mind. As before there was an high thing which did exalt it self against the Knowledge of God, which was only a wrong Imagination, but now there comes a real higher thing, which leads and invites unto his Knowledge, which is stronger and doth prevail. In the Margent of 2 Cor. 10. 5. It is Reasonings opposite to the VVord Imaginations in the Text: For let Men once come to this and the things of God will outreason with them. People may sit down and stop under a sudden and false Thought, or be held under Frowardness, Humour and Incon∣sideration;

or only examine one Side, the pre∣sent seeming Pleasure and Advantage. But if they would give their Thoughts full Scope, and stay a little to see whether Truth will come in, reflect whether in this he is not under the Command and Direction of the great Lord over all, and then consult with his VVord and Spirit; Take in the Consideration of future Judgment and Account, when there shall be an exact Retribution to every Man according to his VVorks and the Matter of this or that Day shall be particularly discussed. The more these things are understood and considered of, they press yet more forcibly; and what were here∣tofore rebellious and supposed to be in the Man's own Power, do fall and submit by de∣grees, till every Thought is brought into Cap∣tivity unto the Obedience of Christ.

The Soul is first brought unto Obedience in the General, and then the same Reason which brings in some Thoughts, doth the other also, till the whole doth come in and yield Confor∣mity to it. For the same God and Father, who is in all and above all and through all, he doth require to be loved with all the Heart, with all the Soul, with all the Strength and with all the Mind. The same Lord Jesus Christ expects that we observe all things whatsoever he hath com∣manded, Mat. 28. 20. And so whether this shall be done presently or hereafter, there are so many Considerations for the present Perfor∣mance of the same, that whoso suffers them to

be debated in his Mind, they forthwith turn the Scale against all dilatory Pleas and Excuses. For seeing we must all appear before God to give Account of our several Persons before him, let our selves judge this one thing in the mean while, whether God will not be better pleased with and sooner accept of those who make no tarrying to turn unto the Lord, and who do not put it off from Day to Day; or with them who trifle with and despise him in the mean time. Or whether it will not be better for them whilst Time is before them and Opportunity is present, so to employ that Opportunity in doing those things whereof is Hope and Ex∣pectation to which God hath annexed a Pro∣mise and a Reward. Or to be still running af∣ter those things whereof they are ashamed in the Act; which heighthens their Doubt and Fear of the divine Threatning and Punishment, which is established by the same Word and Truth as the other. So they are either ten∣ding towards Good, or procuring Loss and Evil to themselves.

Every one Desires good to himself and would avoid evil, Hurt and Inconveniency. As he is a Man of Understanding and Prudence to let him Judge and do according to the most likely Way to obtain the one and avoid the other. See, I have set before thee this Day Life and Good, and Death and Evil: I call Heaven and Earth to record this Day against you, that I have set be∣fore you Life and Death, Blessing and Cursing:

Therefore choose Life that thou and thy Seed may live, Deut. 30. 15. VVhoever reads or hears these Lines, whether thou examinest them in thy Closet or by a casual View; whether this Book be read to thee by another, or few or many be present. To each Man or VVoman singly I do apply my self, and I call the An∣gels to witness that these things be set home to thy Heart, that this doth not turn for a Testi∣mony against thee, and when such things were laid before thee, thou wouldst not mind but re∣fuse, Thou Man or VVoman of whatever Rank or Degree, of whatever Age, State or Condi∣tion of Life, young Men or Maidens, yea and Children that can in the least apprehend what I say, I speak to you all severally, and joynt∣ly even in this very Moment of Time, in this very Instant, now even in the same Day that this is declared unto you, I speak to every one of you in the Prophet's Phrase. BEHOLD YOƲR GOD. And I do most humbly and ear∣nestly intreat of his divine Majesty, which he is more ready to do than I to ask him. O Lord God Almighty, behold thy Sons and Daugh∣ters, that from this Hour and Day they may take thee for the Lord their God, consecrate themselves entirely and universally unto thy Service, improving this and all their remain∣ing Days for every Opportunity to do good, and carefully watch against and eschew all Oc∣casions of evil. Hence forward to mind nothing but God, and the things pertaining to him,

how they may most please and be accepted with him. If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.

Yea, blessed is he that readeth; or they that hear that they may know these VVords, and immediately without any Delay keep and ob∣serve the things written therein.