An abstract of the doctrine of the sabbaoth Briefly, yet fully and plainely set forth; together with the vses of the same doctrine; with the vsuall obiections and answers therevnto. All which for the helpe of memorie, are drawne into sundry chapters.

Of the third point.

Why it is so little vsed.

The cause why this kinde of confe∣rence is so little vsed, is two fold.

• 1 The corruption of our nature; which is so great, that it will nei∣ther provoke our selves, nor others vnto it, nor take occasion being offered; but will cause vs, ey ther to interrupt those that speake religi∣ously, by turning our talke to o∣ther odde matters of worldly pro∣fite, or vaine delight, or else to be stricken so dainely into heavie dumpes, having not a word to maintaine conference withall. This negligence and vntowardnesse breedeth,
  • 1 Vnfruitfull hearing and rea∣ding.
  • 2 Ill memories in the best things.
  • 3 Carelesse and loose living.
• 2 Our barrennesse in heavenly wise∣dome and vnderstanding, and that by reason of two things.

• ...
  • 1 That the word is not hidden plenteously in our ^d hearts, to keepe vs from sinne.
  • 2 That through the iust iudge∣ment of God, (vpon spirits that are prowde in condemning, bitter in reprooving, too swift in censuring, vncharitable in misconstruing, obstinate in er∣ring, vaine in reasoning, subtile in entrapping) many conferen∣ces have prooved either vaine janglings, without edifying, or odious brawles, and vnre con∣cileable, or contentions, both endlesse, and needelesse, without any profit.