The copy of the covenant of grace With a true discovery of several false pretenders to that eternal inheritance, and of the right heir thereunto. Together with such safe instructions as will inable him to clear his title, and to make it unquestionable. Exactly evidenced by many perspicuous and unconstrained testimonies of scripture. Penned, and published upon mature deliberation, and good advise. / By Robert Bidwel, a servant, and minister of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

FIrst, where this Prince of life is, there is life.

He that hath the Son hath life: and he that hath not the Son, hath not life, saith St. John 1 John 5. 12.

And this life is evidenced by these four particulars: namely, Sense, Motion, Resolution, and Action. The first thing that appeareth in this spiritual life is Sense; whilest we want this life of Christ we are altogether senselesse: no better then dead, dead in trespasses and sins. Verily as the body without the Soul is dead: so the soul without Christ is dead also. She is alienated from the life of God, and being alienated from the life of God, she is past feeling saith the Apostle, Ephes. 4. 18, 19.

She perceiveth not the things of the Spirit of God 1 Cor. 2. 14. Ye she is altogether ignorant of her own wretched condition.

She knows not that she is wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blinde and naked. As, Rev. 3. 17. But when Christ, who is her life appeareth unto her, he reviveth, and quickeneth her. For as the father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them: even so the Son doth quicken whom he will, John 5. 21.

And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins, saith St. Paul Ephes. 2. 1.

He gives the soul the feeling of her sins, the sight of Gods fierce wrath and indig∣nation: and fearfull judgements thereupon depending. And being thus made truely sensibe of her own miseries; immediately she doth begin to stir, and move her self towards the consideration of her present dangerous condition, and the most proba∣ble means for her recocery.

Thus the Jews when they were pricked in their hearts, at the relation of their for∣mer impieties: they said unto Peter, And to the rest of the Apostles. Men and brethren what shall we do? Acts 2. 37.

And thus the regenerate Jaylour, being awaked by the power of God in that great earth-quake: feeling the foundations of the prison shaken: seeing all the doors opened, and the prisoners bands loosed: and hear∣ing, notwithstanding all this; that none of them were escaped: immediately he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trem∣bling, and fell down before Paul and Silas, and brought them out and said, Sirs what must I do to be saved? Acts 16. 26, &c.

Nor will this motion admit of rest, until it putteth on a resolution.

No sooner is the soul thus throughly troubled, or moved with the sense of her own miseries, but she will carefully resolve upon some way or other to work her re∣lease.

And in like manner this her resolution, if it be firm and constant, will endeavour to put it self into some suddain action.

All these four signs, degrees, or passages of a spiritual life do well appear, in that story of those four lepers, that sate at the gate of Samaria in the time of the famine, the 2 of Kings the 7. beginning at the 3 verse.

For albeit their parly, and proceedings were meerly rationall, yet they may be ap∣plyed unto this our spiritual purpose.

First, it appeareth that they became sen∣sible of their present distresse, for they said one to another: Why sit we hear untill we die? Secondly their thoughts were moved, and stirred to work their deliverance.

If we say, we will enter into the city (say they) then the famine is in the city, and we shall die there, and if we sit still here, we die also.

Thirdly, they took up a Resolution.

Now therefore come, and let us fall unto the host of the Syrians: if they save us alive,

we shall live: and if they kill as we shall but die.

And what they did so purpose, and re∣solve: they, fourthly forthwith did perform, and finish. They rose up in the twilight to go unto the camp of the Syrians, &c.

And the successe was rich, and admirable: For they not onely relieved, refreshed, and inriched themselves, but their whole city also.

No lesse remarkable to this very purpose, is that Parable of the Prodigall: by which our blessed Saviour himself intended a spi∣ritual incouragement, Luke 15. 17, &c.

First, he came to himself: that is, he be∣came sensible of his own calamity.

Secondly, he was moved, and troubled, that his fathers hired servants, should fare so much better then himself. How many hired servants of my fathers have bred enough, and to spare (saith he) and I perish with hunger.

Thirdly, he resolveth to cast himself up∣on his fathers compassion. I will arise, and go to my father, and say unto him, father: I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, &c.

And Fourthly, he puts his resolution in∣to action. And he arose and came to his fa∣ther.

And then behold his blessed enter∣tainment, when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.

And the like happinesse shall every soul receive. for certain, from her heavenly Fa∣ther: that hath a true sense, and feeling of her transgressions: that is really moved, and troubled for them: that resolveth se∣riously to forsake them: that proceedeth in the right course to be delivered from them. According to that life, which her Beloved brings along with him.

But as the resolutions and actions of the aforesaid lepers, and likewise of the pro∣digal, were undertaken and carried on meerly by necessity, and probably might have been as dangerous, as they proved advantagious.

So in like case the soul that is thus new∣ly revived, and ingaged upon the like compulsive principles, may be exceeding liable, and subject to many perilous mi∣stakes.

O Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps, saith the Prophet, Jere. 10. 23.

And therefore whensoever Jesus Christ appeareth savingly: to such a soul he

giveth light to rule and guide that life.

And thereupon the Apostle: Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead: and Christ shall give thee light, Ephes. 5. 14.

And thus the Lord of himself: I am the light of the world, he that followeth me shall not walk in darknesse, but shall have the light of life, John 8. 12.

This is not a new light: But the true light, which lighteth every man, that cometh into the world, John 1. 9. Not an external, but an internal light: For God, who command∣eth the light to shine out of darknesse, hath shined in our hearts, saith the Apostle, 2 Cor. 4. 6.

Not to inlighten the eyes of the body: but to inlighten the eyes of the under∣standing.

That the eyes of your understanding being inlightened, &c. Saith the same Apostle, Ephes. 1. 18.

The light of the body is the eye, saith our Saviour, Math. 6. 22.

And as the light of the body is the eye: so the light of the soul is the understand∣ing; For as the eye is that member of the body, whereby the body receiveth light: so the understanding is that faculty of the soul, whereby the soul receiveth light also.

And this spiritual light, albeit for substance it is alwayes the same. Yet in regard of the several proceedings, or degrees thereof, it may be said to be threefold.

The first degree is in Christ, or God in Christ essentially. The second is in the Go∣spel exhibitively. The third is in the godly derivatively.

First (I say) this light is in God essential∣ly and originally: God is light saith S. John, 1 Joh. 1. 5.

And so it is infinite, perfect, and perpe∣tual.

First it is infinite: It is said that in the Creation, God made two great lights, the greater light to rule the day, Gen. 1. 16.

And that greater light is the Sun, Psalm 136. 8.

But there is no lesse difference between this light of God, or this light which is God, and the light of the Sun, then there is be∣tween light and darknesse. The Sun can∣not shine in all places at one and the same time: for we see by experience, that the night hideth us from the light thereof. But thus the Prophet David unto the Lord: If I say, surely the darknesse shall cover me, even the night shall be light about me: yea, the dark∣nesse hideth not from thee, but the night shineth

as the day; the darknesse and the light are both alike unto thee, Psal. 139. 11, 12.

And upon whom doth not his light arise? saith Job, Job 25. 3.

Verily this infinite light may not be limi∣ted: It shineth upon all persons, in all pla∣ces, and at all times: And if any man be not inlightened thereby, it is for that, he loveth darknesse rather then light, because his deeds are evil, as John 3. 19.

Secondly, this infinite light is perfect. God is light, and in him is no darknesse, 1 Joh. 1. 5.

Neither is he capable of any the least al∣teration. The Sun may be stayed in his course, as in the dayes of Joshua, Josh. 10. 13. Or turned back, as in the dayes of Heze∣kiah, Isa. 38. 8.

But in this Father of lights there is no va∣riablenesse, neither shadow of turning, Ja. 1. 17. I am the Lord, I change not, saith he, Mala. 3. 6.

Thirdly, this perfect light is perpetual, or everlasting. The Sun shall be turned into darknesse, and the Moon into bloud, before the great, and the terrible day of the L••rd come, Joel. 2. 31. But the Lord shall be unto thee an everlasting light, saith that Evangelical Pro∣phet, Isa. 60. 19. He shall not onely inligh∣ten

thee all thy days in this his Kingdom of grace, but he shall be also thine onely light in his Kingdom of glorie, Rev. 21. 23.

The second degree of this everlasting light, is in the everlasting Gospel: as S. John calleth it, Rev. 14. 6. And here it is commu∣nicable, conformable, and comfortable.

First it is communicable: As the Sun dis∣perseth his light by his beams, so the Lord communicateth his light by his Gospel. That grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus, before the world began: is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel, saith St. Paul, 2 Tim. 1. 9, 10.

And thereupon St. John: The darknesse is past (saith he) and the true light now shineth. 1 Joh. 2. 8.

The darknesse of the Law, which was vailed under types, & figures is done away, and the true light now shineth in the Go∣spel.

And St. Peter thus: We have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Je∣sus Christ, but were eye-witnesses of his Maje∣sty: for he received from God the Father ho∣nour and glorie, when there came such a voice

to him from the excellent glorie: This is my be∣loved Son, in whom I am well pleased. And this voice, which came from Heaven, we heard, when we were with him in the holy Mount. We have also a more sure word of prophesie, whereunto ye do well that ye take heed: as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, untill the day dawn, and the day-star arise in your hearts, 2 Peter 1. 16, 17, 18, 19.

Briefly thus: The Gospel of Jesus Christ, saith he, is no fable: for we were eye-wit∣nesses of his Majesty, and ear-witnesses of his Fathers Testimony, altogether agreeable to the Records of the Prophets, which might serve to convince the Soul of ignorance, and unbelief, untill the Lord Jesus Christ is plea∣sed to reveal himself more abundantly by the light of his Gospel.

But it may be demanded, how God is said to communicate, or discover his light by his Gospel? seeing the Apostle telleth us: That the Gospel is a mysterie, which hath been hid from ages, and from generations, and is now made manifest unto the Saints onely, Col. 1. 26. I answer, that the same Apostle doth very well resolve this doubt in another place. If our Gospel be hid (saith he) it is hid to them that are lost. In whom the God of this world, hath blinded the mindes of them, that

believe not, least the light of the glorious Gospel of Christ: who is the image of God should shine unto them, 2 Cor. 4. 3, 4.

It is no wonder that the most glorious light be obscured, and hidden from those that are blinded: where the defect is not in the light, but in those that cannot, or that will not see the light.

Secondly, this light of the Gospel is con∣formable, or agreeable in every particular to whatsoever was covenanted, and conclu∣ded by, and between God the Father, and his onely begotten Son, in, and by that eternal Covenant of Grace, for, and on the behalf of mankinde. And to this purpose the A∣postle Paul intimateth to the Ephesians: That into him this grace was given, that he should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ: And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mysterie, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: To the intent that now unto the principalities, and powers in heavenly places might be known by the Church, the manifold wisdom of God. According to the eternal purpose, which he pur∣posed in Christ Jesus our Lord, Ephes. 3. 7. to 12.

Verily, this blessed light of the Gospel is

every way so conformable to the whole will of God: and so illustrated with the bright beams of his wisdom, grace, and goodnesse, That we all with open face beholding as in a glasse the glorie of the Lord, are changed in∣to the same image, from glorie to glorie, even as by the Spirit of the Lord, as in 2 Cor. 3. 18.

And thirdly, the light of the Gospel is comfortable: Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted, saith the Gospel, Mat. 5. 4.

This is the day-spring from on high, that hath visited us: to give light to them that sit in darknesse, and in the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace, Luke 1. 78. 79. It sheweth us the way to finde rest unto our Souls, Math. 11. 29. &c. And it assureth us that Jesus Christ is made unto us, wisdom, and righteousnesse, and sanctification, and redemption, 1 Cor. 1. 30.

And let every true Christian be judge, if these be not such comforts, as he chiefly re∣joyceth, or delighteth in.

The third degree of light is in the Godly: And here it is regular, singular, and exem∣plar.

First it is regular: It is guided by rule. By the rule of righteousnesse, the word of

God. He that is truely godly will not pre∣sume to see more then God sheweth him.

Thy word have I hid in my heart: that I might not sin against thee, saith David, Psalm 119. 10. Thy word is a Lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my paths, saith the same Pro∣phet, verse 105.

And therefore the Lord by his Prophet Isaiah: To the law and to the testomonie (saith he) If they speak not according to this word: it is, because there is no light in them, Isa. 8. 20.

And therefore: Woe be unto them, that put darknesse for light, and light for darknesse, Isa. 5. 20.

Secondly, this light in the godly is singu∣lar, it looketh but one way, and that di∣rectly.

If thine eye be single, thine whole body shall be full of light: but if thine eye be evil, thy whole bodie shall be full of darknesse, saith the Lord, Mat. 6. 22. Where he intimateth that, that which is not a single eye, is an evil eye. You know that a crosse eye, that seem∣eth to look one way, when in truth, it look∣eth another: is a great blemish in nature, but the eye of the Soul that is thus deceit∣fully affected, is a greater enemy to grace. Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eye∣lids

look straight before thee, saith the wise man, Prov. 4. 25.

The eye of the godly looketh alwayes right forward upon Gods glory without any self-seeing, or self-seeking: But the blear-eyed hypocrite, when he most seemingly aymeth at Gods glory, he most deceitfully intendeth his own. And this is generally the common course of the world, For all seek their own: not the things that are Jesus Christs, saith St. Paul, Phil. 2. 21.

Thirdly, this light in the godly is exem∣plar. It setteth forth it self to be obser∣ved, intimated, and improved. The path of the just is as the shining light: that shineth more and more unto the perfect day, Prov. 4. 18.

And therefore Paul to the Philipians.

Brethren be f••llowers together of me, and mark them, which walk so, as ye have us for an ensample, Phil. 3. 17. And to his beloved Timothy, Be thou an example of the believers in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity, 1 Tim. 4. 12. And thus our Lord Jesus Christ to his Disciples, Ye are the light of the world (saith he) A city that is set on an hill, cannot be hid, nei∣ther do men light a candle, and put it under a bushell, but on a candlestick, and it giveth light to all that are in the house. Let your

light so shine before men, that they may see your good work, and glorifie your father which is in heaven, Math. 5. 14, 15, 16.

But you will say: what benefit shall the soul receive by all this light?

Truely she shall hereby receive the great∣est, and compleatest of all benefits. She shall be hereby inabled to see God.

Not according to his incomprehensible es∣sence, and excellencies: these are things too high for the highest apprehensions. He is high above all nations & his glory above the heavens, Psal. 113. 4. Higher then the high∣est, Eccles. 5. 8. For according to his secret councell, and inconceivable wisdom: these are too deep for the deepest understand∣ings.

O the depth of the riches, both of the wisdom, and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgements, and his wayes past finding out. For who hath known the minde of the Lord, or who hath been his counceller? saith St. Paul, Rom. 11. 33, 34.

But according to the good pleasure of his own will: and the small measure of our hu∣man capacity. For as the sun it self, as touching its matter, or substance, cannot be discerned by the eye of the body: and yet by the luster, and bright beams there∣of,

we are inabled to see, whatsoever is necessary, or convenient to be seen.

So our immortall, and invisible God, as he is of himself, in himself, and to himself: cannot be perceived by the eye of the soul: yet by the evidence of his works, and of his word he is pleased to reveal himself un∣to us, so far forth as is abundantly suffici∣ent for our temporall satisfaction, and our eternall salvation.

These two large lectures of his works and words: are they wherein the Lord is seen, and read.

The one is a lecture of Philosophy.

The other is a lecture of Divinity.

And both of these are left upon Record, by that sweet singer in his nineteen Psalm.

The first, in the first six verses. The hea∣vens declare the glory of God, and the firma∣ment sheweth his handiwork, &c. to the 7 verse.

This is the lesson of Philosophy.

That of Divinity is examplified from the sixt to the twelfth verse. The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul, &c.

The mighty volume of the works of God may be perused by the light of nature: and it is so fairly, and so plainly written, that e∣very soul, even as they run, may read it. What is he that sees the heavens, and

earth, and those innumerable creatures con∣tained in them: And shall consider their Originall: together with their Order, Ʋse, and End, by which, in which, for which, and unto which, they were made, placed, fitted, and intended: but must confesse the wisdom, power and Godhead of that great arm by which they were created. This is in brief, the lecture of Philosophy: whereby the Lord doth manifest himself to every creature that is indued with Reason.

The second means, whereby we are in∣abled to see, and know God, is by the light of his word. This is the safest, and most christian way: This is Gods lecture of Divini∣ty: where he presents himself unto the eye of every knowing soul. But none can read it comfortably and effectually, but such as are Partakers of the divine nature, as 2 Pet. 1. 4.

I know there are they, that esteem them∣selves great politicians, and are indeed very worldly-wise men, who will be apt to say: do not we understand the holy Scriptures, and see God in them? what should hinder us? Truly, I will not say, but such as these, may read, and understand the word of God rationally, and morally: but not spiritu∣ally, and savingly. These things are written

that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that Believing, ye might have life through his name, saith St. John, John 20. 31.

And thus to know Christ, or God in Christ, Is not from the flesh, but from the Father which is in heaven, Mat. 16, 17.

Again our onely Saviour telleth us: That the words, that he speaketh, they are spirit, Jo. 6. 36.

And the Apostle Paul: That the law is spirituall, Rom. 7. 14. Now the naturall man receiveth, or perceiveth, not the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishnesse unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spi∣rituall judgeth, or discerneth, all things, 1 Cor. 2. 14, 15. But peradventure it will be de∣manded: How much may a judicious morall man see of God in his word, by the light of naturall reason, industry, and experience?

Truely, I conceive that he may see, even as much, as the spirituall man seeth: one thing onely excepted; But without that one thing, he had as good or better see nothing.

He is able to see God, as he is the creator of all things, Gen. 1. 1. &c. As he is the al∣mighty God, as, Gen. 17. 1. As he is a consu∣ming fire, as, Deut. 4. 24. A God of gods, and

Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh rewards, as, Deut. 10. 17. The King eternall immortall, invisible, and the onely wise God, as, 1 Tim. 1. 17. Yea he may see him in a nearer relation: so near as to say, The Lord our God, as, Deut. 6. 4. Thou art our Father: our Redeemer, as, Isa. 63. 16. Our Saviour, as, Jude 25. But haply you will say that this is much for a naturall man to see and know, by the light of Reason: what would you have him know more? Truely let me tell you, all this is nothing worth: unlesse he can see so far, as to say with good David: O Lord of hosts, My King, and My God, Psal. 84. 3.

And with the penitent Prodigall. I will arise, and go unto my Father, Luke 15. 18.

And with righteous Job: I know that My Redeemer liveth, Job 19. 25. And with the blessed mother of our Lord: My soul rejoy∣ceth in God, My Saviour, Luke 1. 47.

And with believing Paul, I live by the faith of the Son of God: who loved Me, and gave himself for Me, Gala. 2. 20.

These are such proper and peculiar inter∣ests, as are discovered by the light of God: and none can see or know them savingly, but such a one as is the childe of God.

And as this saving light directeth us unto the knowledge our Sovereign Lord: So it instructeth us to know our selves, in refe∣rence to God: and by this means, it teach∣eth us to entertain Humility.

This the third obedient courtier, which still attends upon that King of kings: And whom Christ seems to send before his face, as to prepare, & usher in his way into the new illuminated soul: Nor did there ever any soul injoy the saving presence of her loving Lord, but by the conduct of this favorite. For God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble, James 4. 6.

And therefore Peter doth advise us, say∣ing: Be ye clothed with humility, 1 Pet. 5. 5.

But forasmuch as he is much abused, by some that do usurpe his name, and office al∣though in nature, they are nothing like him: I therefore shall endeavour to set forth four sorts that do, and do pretend, to march under his colours, and assume his titles.

And of these, the first is a treacherous Humility. The second is a cowardly humi∣lity: The third is a constrained-humility: And the fourth is the true, and the sound hu∣mility.

The first, I say is a treacherous humility,

And under this fair-seeming Cloak doth lurk many a foul perfidious design. The Prophet David in his description of a wic∣ked person, Psal. 10. saith: That he crouch∣eth, and humbleth himself, that the poor may fall by his strong ones, verse 10.

'Tis strange to any honest heart to see, how some will counterfeit humility: and cast themselves beneath their prouder thoughts, to gain the reputation of good men, good lowly men: but though they gull the world, the blear-eyed world: yet he that knows their hearts doth see for truth, that they are nothing so. And whosoever shall be∣lieve their forgeries, shall finde at length that they are inside Wolves, though outside Sheep: Wolves in Sheeps cloathing: Ye shall know them by their fruits, saith our Saviour, Mat. 7. 16.

Proud Absolon conspiring to depose his tender father David from his Kingdom, that he might wickedly usurp the same: When any man came nigh to him, to do him obeysance, he put forth his hand, and took him, and kissed him. And on this manner did Ab∣salon to all Israel, that came to the King for judgement, so Absalon stole the hearts of the men of Israel, 2 Sam. 15. 5, 6.

See here how this ambitious rebel hum∣bleth

himself, even to the lowest, and worst of the people; thereby promoting his con∣spiracie, that so he might advance himself above the greatest, and the best of Kings.

And is it not a common thing with ma∣ny, to complement us with: your humble servant, when really and truely they esteem it too little honour to be but our Masters, unlesse they may command us as their slaves.

This is a treacherous humility.

The second is a cowardly humility.

And that is, when a man through fear of death, or bonds, or damage, or some such like danger, humbles himself so far, as to submit to the unworthy, or unjust commands of men in opposition to God, and a good conscience: I do not say contrary to his own unhappy conscience; for he that is a coward in Gods cause: is commonly as great a Tyrant over his own conscience, he will not suffer it so much as to minde him of any of his vile abominations. He hath seared it (or burnt it as a slave) with a hot Iron. As the Apostle speaketh, 1 Tim. 4. 2. We read that the Persian Monarch Ahasuerus promoted Haman, &c. And all the Kings servants that were in the Kings Gate, bowed, and reverenced Haman, for the King had so commanded, Esth. 3. 1, 2.

But Mordecay (Gods true and faithfull servant) he bowed not, nor did him reve∣rence.

He onely humbled himself to God: and God preserved, and rewarded him.

Humble your selves therefore under the mighty hand of God: that he may exalt you in due time, saith St. Peter, 1 Peter 5. 6. But who art thou, that thou shouldest be afraid of a man that shall die, and of the Sonne of Man, which shall be made as grasse: and forgettest the Lord thy maker, &c. saith the Lord by his Prophet, Isa. 51. 12, 13.

The third is a constrained humility.

Not constrained by the power, or compul∣sion of Man, or by any other outward vio∣lence. But by the terrours of an accusing conscience. As when a Man is humbled, or dejected through the sense, or apprehensi∣on, or expectation of Divine Justice dis∣charging it self of some grievous plague, or punishment, either temporal, or eternal; present, or impendent: And this, of it self is neither absolutely hurtfull nor helpfull: but according to the fellowship, or society that it lighteth upon. If it meeteth with self-ends, then it becometh unfruitfull: If it meeteth with Hypocrisie, it proveth con∣temptible: If with despair it is damnable:

But if it meeteth with faith, then it beco∣meth sound and effectual.

First I say, if it lighteth upon self-ends, it proveth unfruitfull. This we see in the ex∣ample of Ahab: For Elijah having denoun∣ced most fearfull judgements against Ahab, his wife, and family: It came to passe, when Ahab heard those words, that he rent his Cloaths, and put sack-cloath upon his flesh, and fasted, and lay in sack-cloath, and went softly, 1 Kings 21. 27.

Insomuch that the Lord himself took great notice thereof, verse 29. Neverthelesse not long after Ahab set his heart upon the re∣covery of Ramoth Gilead, 1 Kings 22. 3. And in pursuance thereof, he expressed his hatred to Micaiah the true Prophet verse 8. He despised the word of the Lord, verse 18. He putteth Gods Prophet into prison. ver. 27. And proceedeth in his designe, to his own destruction. Thus through his own self-ends, his constrained humility became un∣fruitfull.

Secondly, if this constrained humility be carried on by Hypocrisie, then it proveth contemptible. This appeareth in the words of the Lord by his Prophet Isaiah, to the dissembling Jews: Wherefore have we fasted (say they) and thou seest not? Wherefore have

we afflicted our Soul, and thou takest no know∣ledge? Behold, in the day of your fast you find pleasure, and exact all your labours. Behold, ye fast for strife, and debate, &c. Isa. 58. 3, 4, 5.

Here are all the signs of a solemne humi∣liation: but because it was performed in Hypocrisie, the Lord poureth contempt up∣on it.

And therefore the Lord Christ in his Ser∣mon on the Mount, exhorteth his Disciples: saying: when ye fast, be not as the Hypocrites of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast, &c. Math. 6. 16. &c.

And this fasting is a principal part of hu∣miliation: as it appeareth by that of the Prophet David: I humbled my Soul with fa∣sting, saith he, Psal. 35. 13.

And by the deportments of the Jews in the time of Esther, and Mordecay, Esther, 4. 3.

Thirdly, when this constrained humility incountreth with despair, it becometh dead∣ly and damnable. As in the example of Saul, who in his sore distresse humbled him∣self even unto the Devil, in the likenesse of Samuel, 1 Sam. 28. 14.

And of Judas the Traytour, who repent∣ed,

confessed, restored, and departed, and went and hanged himself, Math. 27. 3, 4, 5.

But this humilitie, if it findeth out faith: then it proveth sound, and effectual. Like that of Manasseh, who when he was in affliction besought the Lord his God: and humbled him∣self greatly before the God of his fathers, and prayed unto him, and he was intreated of him, and heard his supplication; and brought him again to Jerusalem into his Kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the Lord he was God, 2 Chr. 33. 12, 13.

Neither was this kinde of humility lesse remarkable in Saul the persecuter, after∣wards Paul the Apostle, who being upon the height of his tyrannical intentions: Jesus, whom he persecuted, dismounted him, and laid him on the earth, untill his cruel heart was so abased and humbled, that he trem∣bling, and astonished said: Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? Acts 9. to the 7^th. verse.

Then upon whom, the mercy of God was never more freely bestowed: Then by whom, the free grace of God in Christ, was never more excellently magnified.

Yet I am the least of the Apostles (saith he) that am not meet to be called an Apostle: be∣cause I persecuted the Church of Christ. But by the grace of God, I am what I am, 1 Cor. 15.

9. 10. This is the work of a sound humili∣ty: And it well deserveth our serious consi∣deration. And therefore I shall endeavour to propound, and answer these four que∣stions.

• First, what is this sound humility?
• Secondly, by whom is it wrought?
• Thirdly, how, or after what manner is it wrought?
• And fourthly, what doth it work?

To the first question it is answered: That humility is that work of regeneration, through which, our connsciences being con∣victed, and afflicted by the sense of our sins, and the consideration of our own wants, and unworthinesse: we do unfainedly confesse the same unto God, devoutly imploring his pardon for sinne, together with a supply of spiritual grace.

That this humility is a work of regenera∣tion, and thus qualified (I conceive) will not be denied nor contradicted. For so soon as that eternal goodnesse of God appeareth unto his otherwise lost creature: In beget∣ting him, of his own will, with the word of truth, as Ja. 1. 18.

Immediately by the light of the same word, he beginneth to survey himself: and to weigh all his thoughts, words, actions, and

abilities, according to this ballance of the sanctuary. And finding them utterly void of all grace, and goodnesse: and stuffed with nothing but sin, and corruption. He bursteth out with the Prophet David in his 51. Psalm.

Sometimes by way of confession: saying, I acknowledge my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me, verse 3.

Behold, I was shapen in iniquity, and in sin did my mother conceive me, verse 5.

Sometimes by way of petition for the re∣mission of his sins: Purge me with Hysope, and I shall be clean: Wash me, and I shall be whiter then snow: Make me to hear of joy and glad∣nesse, that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoyce: hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities, verses 7. 8, 9.

Sometimes by way of supplication for sup∣plies of spiritual grace.

Create in me a clean heart, O Lord, and re∣new a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence, and take not thy holy Spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salva∣tion, and uphold me with thy free Spirit, verse 10. 11, 12.

O Lord, open thou my lips, and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise, verse 15.

And thus with David, the poor humble

Soul bemoans her self after a mournfull manner: yet in the midst of all her passions, she's confident to say with the same Pro∣phet: A broken, and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise, verse 17.

For the Lord hath pronounced her bles∣sed, and promised her comfort: saying,

Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted, Math. 5. 4.

The second question is this:

By whom is this humility wrought? To which I answer: By the Lord our God.

God maketh my heart soft, saith Job, Job 23. 16. Thou shalt remember all the way, which the Lord thy God led thee these fourty years in the wildernesse to humble thee, and to prove thee, saith Moses to the Congregation of Is∣rael, Deut. 8. 2. It was the Lord of heaven, that humbled the proud heart of Nebuchad∣nezzar King of all the earth, and made him a companion unto beasts: whereby he per∣ceived, that he was no better then a beast in comparison of the living God: Insomuch, That he blessed the most high, and praised, and honoured him that liveth for ever, &c. Dan. 4. 33. 34.

And because his son, and successour Bel∣shazzar humbled not himself, though he knew all this, but lifted up himself against

the Lord of heaven, the same Lord did put him into a condition worse then of a beast: As appeareth by his desperate agony, and his unexpected end, Dan. 5. 22, 23.

Now albeit, this abasing, or humbling did work upon these mighty heathens, no other∣wise then to manifest Gods more mighty power and Majesty. Yet where it becometh effectual through faith: it fitteth and pre∣pareth the heart, towards the attaining of everlasting salvation.

And the preparations of the heart are from the Lord, saith Solom••n, Prov. 16. 1.

But how is this humility wrought? Or by what means doth our God work it in us? For this is the third question.

Verily it appeareth unto me, that the or∣dinary means whereby the Lord begins to break, and soften, and humble our rebel∣lious hard hearts, is by affliction, which be∣ing sanctified unto us by the sweet influence and operation of his holy Spirit: it direct∣eth us unto the Agent, the Cause, and the Cure of all our miseries, both outward, and inward, temporal, and eternal.

Insomuch that every one, who is become poor in spirit, will freely confesse with the Prophet David. I know, O Lord, that thy judgements are right: and that thou in faith∣fulnesse

hast afflicted me, Psalm 119. 75.

For our better satisfaction in this parti∣cular: we must consider, that we are all by nature proud, insolent, disobedient, and ob∣stinate. No man repenteth him of his wicked∣nesse: saying, what have I done? Every one turneth to his course, as the horse rusheth into the battel, saith the Prophet, Jer. 8. 6.

And that is fiercely, furiously, and dan∣gerously: untill the Lord, in pity of our Souls, claps his restraining bridles in our jaws: And to abate us of our desperate speed, layes burdens of afflictions on our backs, on some more heavy, and on some more light, according to his wisdom and our temper: For he knoweth our frame, he remem∣breth that we are dust, saith David, Psalm 103. 14.

And when the Lord, with his afflicting hand, hath fill'd her with occasions of com∣plaint, the Soul beginneth to cast down her pride, her stout behaviour, and her haughty looks: and to devise from whence those woes proceed. And being now in this per∣plexity, 'tis ten to one, but some of her ac∣quaintance, some miserable carnal comfor∣ters, are ready to perswade her, that her di∣stresses come by accident: by chance, by fortune, or by evil tongues, or by the dispo∣sition

of the Stars, or by the malice of her enemies, or treachery of some deceitfull friends.

And hereupon they will prescribe her re∣medies suteable to these devilish suggesti∣ons: To turn her eyes from looking to∣wards God: and so to drown her in a Sea of sorrows.

But, having now begun his work of grace, her God strikes in, and sends her to his word: where she findeth: That affliction cometh not forth of the dust, neither doth trouble spring out of the ground, Job 5. 6.

But the L••rd killeth, and maketh alive: he bringeth down to the grave, and bringeth up: The Lord maketh poor, and maketh rich, &c. 1 Sam. 2. 6; 7. And being thus instructed, and confirmed in these, and the like godly principles, she crieth out with mournfull Naomie: The Lord hath testified against me, and the Almighty hath afflicted me, Ruth. 1. 21.

And having found the Agent to be God, she knows the action must be just and right: For the Lord is righteous in all his wayes, and holy in all his works, Psal. 145. 17.

And going forward in her heavenly search: She findes that God doth not afflict willingly, nor grieve the Children of men, Lam. 3. 33.

And therefore there is some impulsive cause, which doth constrain him to these sad proceedings. Well, what is the cause for which the Lord afflicteth: why this his Church confesseth to be sin. We roar all like Beares (saith she) and mourn sore like Doves: we look for judgement, but there is none: for salvation, but it is far from us: For our transgressions are multiplied before thee, and our sins testifie against us, &c. Isai 59. 11, 12. &c. And thus by the Prophet Jeremie. We lie down in our shame, and our confusion covereth us: for we have sinned against the Lord our God, Jerem. 3. 25. And this the Scriptures every where affirm.

And what is sin? why, sin is the trans∣gression of the law, 1 John 3. 4.

Resolved thus: the Soul draws forth her life, and layes it to the level of the law, and findes it so repugnant to the rule: so crook∣ed, crosse, deformed, and destructive: That now she feels not, what she hath received, but fears to think of what she hath deserved. Her sorrow now is turned into anger: Anger against her self, her sinfull self, she wonders how the Justice of the Almighty hath spared her so long, and not inflicted the penalty that's due to her transgressions, eternal death in everlasting torments.

And being thus affrighted at her sins, the onely cause of her afflictions: the Soul be∣stirs her self about the Cure. And to that end, she sighs, weeps, vowes, resolves, and fasts, and prayes, and cries unto the Lord. Behold, O Lord, for I am in distresse: my bowels are troubled, mine heart is turned with∣in me: for I have grievously rebelled, Lament. 1. 20.

Bowels of grief beg bowels of compassion, and all to little purpose: For now the more she mourns, the more she may, her spirit is ingaged in the conflict. And a wounded spi∣rit, who can bear, saith Solomon, Prov. 18. 14. Poor Soul for life she labours; does, undoes: she spends her spirits, and torments her self; and all to satisfie incensed Justice. Which she is never able to perform by her own pas∣sions, were they strong as death, and deep as hell. The Law is broken, and it is Gods Law: her sute is entred; and her case re∣ported, one day of hearing craveth for an∣other, night unto night doth utter lamenta∣tions: Justice must be appeas'd, or no dis∣charge, every hour fresh summons to the barr: she gives attendance, but receives no comfort: her time runs on, her taske is but begun: her work is always doing, never ended: And so her case seems to be despe∣rate:

Because she seeketh not the cure by Christ: by God in Christ. Oh! there is heaven∣ly musick! That very name revives her: and commands her ears and heart to dwell upon that sound, which they suck in with a delitious relish. For now that God and man: that Mediator (not won by tears) but of his own free grace, turns o're the mighty volume of his book: the glorious records of free-election, and finds her name written in that Book of life, Revela. 3. 5.

And now though haply he may forbear for some short time to utter his affections, until her heart be throughly mollified, and well prepared to receive impression: yet he forgets not to compassionate the pining wretch, but in the best of times: his own good time, he says concerning her, like as he did concerning Ephraim. Is this my dear daughter? is she a pleasant child? for since I spake against her I do earnestly remember her still, therefore my bowels are troubled for ber, I will surely have mercy on her, saith the Lord, Jer. 31. 20.

And to her self, as to his spouse, he saith. O my dove! that art in the clefts of the rock, in the secret places of the stairs, let me see thy countenance, let me hear thy voice: for sweet is thy voice, and thy countenance is comly, Cant. 2. 14.

In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment, but with everlasting kindnesse will I have mercy on thee, &c. Isa. 54. 8, 9, 10.

And thus her Lord bemoanes, and greets, and cheers her, till being big with Christ her comforter, she singeth with the blessed virgin Mary: My soul doth magnifie the Lord, and my spirit hath rejoyced in God my Sa∣viour. For he hath regarded the lowe estate of his handmaiden, &c. Luke 1. 46, &c.

This is a happy progresse, you may say: But where appeareth this humility? Truely she meets with it in every passage.

First, she survayes her sorrows, and she says, Remembering mine affection, and my misery, the wormwood and the gall: my soul hath them still in rememberance, and is hum∣bled in me, Lament. 3. 19, 20.

And secondly, she sees the work of God in her afflictions: and therefore, She hum∣bleth her self under the mighty hand of God. According as St. Peter teacheth her, 1 Pet. 5. 6.

Thirdly, perceiving sin to be the cause of all her miseries; she humbly begs to have it done away. Have mercy upon me, O God (saith she) according to thy loving kindnesse: according to the multitude of thy tender mer∣cies blot out my transgressions: wash me through∣ly

from mine iniquitie, and cleanse me from my sin, as, Psal. 51. 1, 2.

And with like meeknesse promiseth a∣mendment. I have born chastisement, (saith she) I will not offend any more, as, Job 34. 31. But Justice pleads for satisfaction, The soul (saith he) that sinneth, it must die. At this the poor soul seems as dead indeed: she's utterly dejected, quite cast down. She's not so stiff in her opinion, to bring in writs of errour, or false-judgement. All that she desires, is to obtain the mercy of the Book: where she is taught to read. The wages, indeed, of sin is death: But the gift of God is eternall life, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Rom. 6. 23.

And here she breathes: for here's the breath of life. And thus restor'd she hum∣bly thanks the law, her schole-master for bringing her to Christ. She hangs upon this promise: claims this gift, and by this Jesus Christ her Surty, she tenders satisfaction unto Justice; and is dismissed without cost, or dammage. And not so onely: But she's made an heir, an heir of God, and a joynt-heir with Christ, Rom. 8. 17.

And is she proud of this preferment now? No verily: Till now she never felt the kind∣ly force of sound humility. All her humilty

unto this present, was meerly legal, trou∣blesome, and slavish: but now 'tis evangeli∣call and free, or if it be constrained any way: It is constrained by the love of Christ, Indeed. The love of Christ constraineth her, because she thus judgeth, that if one died for all: then were all dead, 2 Cor. 5. 14.

If all were dead, then she amongst the rest, And that she now lives, or begins to live, 'tis onely by the purchace of his grace, He died the death, that she deserved to die, that she may live with him eternally. And where is boasting then? it is excluded, By what law? of works? Nay, but by the law of faith, Rom. 3. 27.

Now she believes, and loves, and hence proceeds a modest, willing, sweet humi∣lity. She's not dejected through a servile fear: but she is humbled by attractive love, Because her Lord requires to have it so.

Take my yoak upon you, and learn of me, for I am meek, and lowly in heart, saith her beloved Lord, Math. 11. 29.

Let this minde be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equall with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likenesse of men. And being found in

fashion as a man, he humbled himself, & became obedient unto death, even the death of the crosse, saith his learned Apostle, Phil. 2. 5. to the 9.

Thus councel wooes her, and example wins her: And she walkes humbly with her God in Christ. According to that of the Prophet, Micah 6. 8. And thus effectuall humility is brought, and wrought into the sinful soul.

But what doth this humility perform? what doth it work? For that is the fourth Que∣stion. I answer, that this true humility, be∣ing impowred, and improved by Faith: hath principally these five operations, It instruct∣eth, disposeth, removeth, reneweth, and recei∣veth.

First, it instructs the new-inlightened soul in those hereditary imperfections, which pride would never suffer her to look on: so as to own them with a free consent, as the onely off-spring of her cursed nature. But being humbled, she can plainly see sin, and corruption in every corner, defiling all her thoughts, and words, and deeds. And thereupon she willingly confesseth, That every imagination of the thoughts of her heart, is onely evill continually, as, Gen. 6. 5.

That her tongue is an unruly evill, full of deadly poyson, as, James 3. 8.

Insomuch, that she hath wearied the Lord with her words, as, Mala. 2. 17.

And that she loveth darknesse rather then light, because her deeds are evil, as, John 3. 19.

And looking back upon her sinfull cour∣ses, she feelingly complaineth with St. Paul, what fruit had I then in those things, whereof I am now ashamed: for the end of those things is death, Rom. 6. 21.

Again, humility instructeth her in her own wants, her spiritual poverty, for whereas pride endeavours to perswade her: That she is rich and increased in goods, and hath need of nothing: humility informs her, That she is wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blinde, and naked, as, Revel. 3. 17. So that in her there dwelleth no good thing, Rom. 7. 18.

And having shown her that she is full of evil, and void or empty of all grace, and goodness: humility proceedeth to instruct her in her own weakness; which is so ex∣tream: that she hath neither power to sup∣press her wickedness, nor to supply her wants, we are not sufficient of our selves to think any thing, as of our selves: but our suf∣ficiency is of God, saith Paul, 2 Cor. 3. 5.

Thus the poor soul learns to be sensible, of her own wickedness, and wants, and weakness.

And from this feeling sense humility dis∣Poseth her to seek relief, whereby her sins may be supprest: her wants supply'd, and her much weakness pitied, and supported. O how she struggles in this three-fold snare! how she endeavous to release her self! But all in vain until a voice from heaven di∣recteth her to take the little book out of the great and mighty angels hand, Rev. 10. The Gospel in the hand of Jesus Christ, where∣in, by his directon, she findeth. That he is that Lamb of God, that taketh away the sin of the world, John 1. 19. That the bloud of Jesus Christ cleanseth us from all sin, 1 John 1. 7. And that, He hath loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, Revel. 1. 5. Here she sees how her sins are washt away: and how she is so clearly cleansed from them, that she is freed for ever from that bondage.

Again she reads, That in him dwelleth all the fulnesse of the Godhead bodily, Colo. 2. 9. And, that of his fulnesse we have all re∣ceived, and grace for grace, John 1. 16.

Here she perceives her wants are all sup∣plyed, and that in him she's fully furnished, And to sustain her in her present weakness, she hears him say to her, as to St. Paul, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is

made perfect in weaknesse, 2 Cor. 12. 9.

Until she comes experimentally to tri∣umph with that mighty man of God. I can do all things through Christ, which strenghen∣eth me, Phil. 4. 13.

And having tasted of these heavenly com∣forts, she ruminates upon this little book, from whence she sucketh such exceeding sweetness, that now she singeth with the Prophet David: How sweet are thy words unto my taste, yea sweeter then hony to my mouth, Psal. 119. 103.

But yet before she fully can disgest this book, she findes it bitter in her belly. For looking back upon her sinfull wayes, she sees how ill she hath requited these incom∣parable favours: How she hath grieved the Spirit of her Lord, and crucified the Son of God a fresh. And looking upon him, whom she hath pierced, she mourneth for him, as one mourneth for his onely son, and as is bitter∣nesse for him, as one that is in bitternesse for his first born. According to that of the Pro∣phet, Zechar. 12. 10. Now sin appeareth in its proper colours, foul, filthy, beast∣ly, and abominable. So that the soul begins to hate her self, for loving such a base deformed monster, so spightfull, trea∣cherous, and damnable, that nothing can

be more pernitious. And being thus incen∣sed against sin: theres nothing can content her, but her Saviour. She doth not cry with Rachel, give me children, but give ne Jesus Christ, or else I die. She is extreamly sick of her corruptions, and none but Je∣sus must be her Physitian: she seeks no other Physick, but his favour; no antidote, but his affection: no balsom, but his blood: and therefore she will entertain him upon any tearms though never so offensive to the flesh: for she hath found, that There is none other name under heaven, whereby we must be saved, Acts 4. 12.

And now by vertue of humility, that most obedient child of Faith and Love, the care∣ful soul endeavours to remove all such im∣pediments as may obstruct, the sweet ap∣proach of her beloved Lord. And knowing sin to be the onely thing that causeth their unhappy separation, as, Isa. 59. 2. She cries unto her strength, and her Redeemer for help against that false infernal foe: that seeks to keep her still in his displeasure. And being ayded by her Saviour, and arm∣ed with his well approved armour, Ephes. 6. 13, &c.

She setteth first upon those crying sins, that are of greatest obloquie, and scandal:

and having routed those prodigions rebels, she ransacks every corner of her conscience and haling forth her more concealed crimes, she sends them packing: she con∣demns her self of sloath, self-saving and hy∣pocrisie: she crucifies her own corrupted nature, and mortifies her most beloved lusts: she suffers not a peevish thought to pass without a serious examination, and a severe impartial reproof. For the weapons of her warfare are not carnall, but mighty through God, to the pulling down of strong holds: cast∣ing down imaginations, and every high thing, that exalteth it self against the knowledge of God: and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. According to that of the Apostle, 2 Cor. 10. 4, 5.

But for as much as pride, rebellious pride, is evermore her mortal enemy. The child of ignorance: the Divels darling, the soul of schism, the strength of heresie, the food of spight, the fuell of contention, the fools affiance, and the wise mans fear, the bane of godliness, the death of grace, hate∣ful to Christ: and hurtful to his members. Therefore this humble soul constrains her self to cast out this destructive adversary: and hold him in perpetual defiance. And thus, that she may gain her gracious Lord,

she labours mightily to take away the evil of her doings from his eyes: To which she cannot yet conceive her self to be a pleasing Object. For though she could cleanse her self from all filthiness of flesh and spirit; according to Saint Pauls incouragement, 2 Cor. 7. 1. Yet she must likewise perfect holiness in the fear of God. And be renewed in the spirit of her minde, And put on that new man, which after God is created in righteousnesse and true holinesse, as, Ephes. 4. 23, 24. Or she esteems her self unfit for Christ.

These are the beauties, that her Lord delights in: And therefore now she seeks to deck her self with these new ornaments.

Not with broyded hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly aray, as good St. Paul, 1 Tim. 2. 9.

And yet much lesse will she deform her self, according to the fashions of this world.

But she endeavours to adorn her self, in the hidden man of the heart, in that, which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet Spirit, which in the sight of God is of great price. According to St. Pe∣ters exhortation, 1 Peter 3, 4.

And being thus arayed, and adorned with precious robes instead of specious rags: beyond the power or police of nature, and past the industry of humane art, She seeks

the good hand of her God upon her, for which she humbly magnifies his grace, say∣ing as in Isaiahs Prophesie, I will greatly rejoyce in the Lord, my soul shall be joyfull in my God: for he hath cloathed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousnesse as a bride∣groom decketh him self with Ornaments, and as a bride adorneth her self with her jewells Isa. 61. 10. And thus attired with all humility she waiteth to receive her soveraign Lord, and panting for his most desired presence: she sings, as in the song of Solomon: stay me with flagons, comfort me with apples: for I am sick of love, Cant. 2. 5. Set me as a seal upon thy heart: as a seal upon thine arm, for love is strong as death, Cant. 8. 6.

Make haste my beloved, and be thou like to a Roe, or to a young hart upon the mountains of spices, Cant. 8. 14.

And now her blessed Lord, who all this while: from the first in stant of her new crea∣tion, wrought secretly upon her sinful heart, melting it in the furnace of affliction: dis∣covering the Agent, cause; and cure of all her miseries: instructing her in her own sinfulnesse, and wants, and weaknesse: dis∣posing her to seek and find relief, remo∣ving all occasions of offence: and renova∣ting

her to his own likenesse, And all this by the level of humility, the first, and fair∣est fruit of faith, and love. Now he appears to her more visibly.

For God who commanded the light to shine out of darknesse, shineth in her heart to give the light of the knowledge of the glorie of God in the face of Jesus Christ, as in 2 Cor. 4. 6.

At which the poor Soul fares as one transported: Not by the spirit of illusion, of pride, vain glory, or Hypocrisie: like those that labour to dishonour Christ in his eternal Mediatorship by their conditional Election, that magnify the broken arm of flesh by their free-will, and carnal confi∣dence, that wrest the word of God to over∣throw Scripture by reason, that will make the Law of none effect by their traditions, that do despise, rule, order, government, and lift themselves above Gods Ordinances, that make their Christian liberty the Cloak for their ambition, avarice and envy, that dare with shamelesse impudence proclaim themselves for Saints, whereas their practice proves, that they are altogether otherwise: That say, stand by thy self, come not near to me, for I am holier then thou: These are a smoak in my nose, &c. saith the Lord, Isa. 65. 5.

But in the spirit of a meek sound minde, with upright Job she sayes unto the Lord I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee. Wherefore I abhor my self, and repent in dust and ashes, Job 42. 5. 6. And with that Evangelical Isaiah: wo is me, for I am undone, because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips, for mine eyes have seen the Lord of Hosts, Isa. 6. 5.

And with that good Centurion, she saith: Lord I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof, Math. 8. 8.

And thus the nearer that her Lord ap∣procheth, with his pure, spotlesse, glorious perfections: the more unworthy she esteems her self: untill she seems unto her self as no∣thing: Yea, worse then nothing. All her braveries, her beauties, honours, pleasures, wit, and wealth are lying Witches, all her fair professions are painted Vizards of Hy∣pocrisie: her moral vertues, and most pre∣cious parts, are filthy garments spotted by the flesh. For so she values them, and casts them from her: And having stript her self of all such rags, she humbly layes her self at her Lords feet: saying, as Ruth did sometime say to Boaz, I am thine handmaid, spread therefore thy skirt over thine hand-maid, Ruth. 3. 9.

And wheresoever this Humility hath wrought this work: No doubt but Christ is there, and brings assurance as his next at∣tendant.

And so it followeth in the fourth place: That wheresoever Christ is there is Assu∣rance.

In him we have boldnesse, and accesse with confidence, by the faith of him, saith St. Paul, Eph. 3. 12.

And that strong fortresse wherein this Assurance is to be lodged, and established, is the free promises of God in Christ, according to the Covenant of Grace.

There are too many that do seek for this Assurance in their own sanctification.

And that in order to their victories over their sins, & their abilities to serve their God according to the rule of his Commandments. And this, I must confesse, is a fair building, but yet exceeding subject to the blasted in time of tryal and temptation: when every filching undermining sin shall catch occasion to break in, and shake, or shatter all, or part of their Assurance: But that Assurance, which is fortified by the sure promises of God in Christ, is much more safe, secure, and satisfying. Wherefore if thine Assurance steps aside, and seems to slight thee, fly unto the

promises, where thou shalt hear thy Lord returning him, with this, or the like com∣fortable language: Come unto me all ye that labour, and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest, Math. 11. 28. Him that cometh to me, I will in no wise cast out, John 6. 37. Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that believeth on me, hath everlasting life, John 6. 47. He hath it already.

• First, he hath it of Christ by promise.
• Secondly, he hath it from Christ by pur∣chace.
• And thirdly, he hath it in Christ by po∣session.

I say that every true believer hath eter∣nal life: And first of Christ by promise.

My sheep hear my voice (saith he) and I know them, and they follow me, and I give un∣to them eternal life, &c. John 10. 27, 28, 29.

And therefore fear not little flock (saith he) for it is your fathers good pleasure to give you the Kingdom, Luke 12. 32.

Secondly, he hath it from Christ by pur∣chase, by Christ his purchase, and that un∣der seal, and in the earnest thereof.

After that ye believed in Christ (saith Paul) ye were sealed with the holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance, untill

the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glorie, Eph. 1. 13, 14.

And thirdly, he hath it in Christ by pos∣session, Christ hath taken possession of it, and prepared it for all believers.

I go to prepare a place for you (saith he) And if I go and prepare a place for you: I will come again, and receive you unto my self, that where I am, there ye may be also, Joh. 14. 2, 3. And whither I go, ye know, saith he, verse 4.

For that Kingdom, which was prepared for you, from the foundation of the world, upon promise of satisfaction: I go to pre∣pare for you after performance of satisfa∣ction.

Where it shall be said unto you: Come ye blessed of my father, inher••t the Kingdom pre∣pared for you from the foundation of the world, as Math. 25. 34.

What Soul can wish a more compleat as∣surance?

But haply you will say, we do not doubt, but every true believer is sure enough to have eternal life by Jesus Christ: But what assurance have we of those good things, that do concern this life?

Indeed the Prophet David telleth us: There be many that say, who will shew us any good, Psal. 4. 6.

But in this case also, we have both pro∣mise, example, and experience for our as∣surance. For matter of promise: God hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee; Heb. 13. 5.

But what is it, poor Soul, thou art afraid of? Art thou afraid of poverty, or want?

Why, a little that a righteous man hath, is better then the riches of many wicked. For the arms of the wicked shall be broken: but the Lord upholdeth the righteous. The Lord know∣eth the dayes of the upright, and their inheri∣tance shall be for ever: They shall not be a∣shamed in the evil time, & in the dayes of fa∣mine they shall be satisfied, Ps. 37. 16, 17. 18, 19.

Trust therefore in the living God, who gi∣veth us richly all things to injoy, 1 Tim. 6. 17.

Art thou afraid of discredit? afraid to lose thy good name and reputation?

Why, the Lord is able to make thee a name, and a praise among all people of the earth, as Zepha. 3. 20.

Admit that thy good name be reproched, by the mouth of a scorner here upon the earth: yet thou hast cause to rejoyce, for that thy name is registred in heaven, as Luke 10. 20.

Art thou afraid of thine enemies?

Consider that of the Prophet David: The

Lord (saith he) is my light; and my salvation, whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life, of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked, even mine enemies, and my foes came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled, and fell, Psal. 27. 1, 2. And the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee fear not, I will help thee, as in Isa. 41. 13.

Art thou afraid of death? Behold, the eye of the Lord is upon them that fear him, that hope in his mercie: to deliver their Soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine, Psal. 33. 18, 19.

But why should any man be such a cow∣ard, as to fear an enemy that is already conquered: Yea, abolished, or destroyed, 2 Tim. 1. 10. Swallowed up in victory, 1 Cor. 15. 54.

Truely, dear Christian, thou hast cause to triumph over these enemies after this manner. O death, where is thy sting? O Grave, where is thy victorie? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law: But thanks be to God, which giveth us the vi∣ctorie, through our Lord Jesus Christ, as at 1 Cor. 15. 55, 56; 57.

In a word, whatsoever thou fearest, or whatsoever thou feelest: Thou shall finde God thy refuge; and strength, a very present

help in trouble; as well as David did, Psalm 46. 1.

Onely be carefull, That thou suffer not as a Murderer, or as a Thief, or as an evil doer, or as a busie-bodie in other mens matters. And then assure thy self: That the Lord is faithfull, who shall stablish thee, and keep thee from evil. According unto St. Pauls confi∣dence, 2 Thes. 3. 3.

Again, consider: What doest thou desire? Doest thou desire safety, preservation, de∣liverance, victory, wealth, honour, long-life, or salvation (after a moderate, and god∣ly manner) Acquaint thy self with the sub∣stance of the 91 Psalm.

And with the 3 first verses of the 112 Psal. In these words: Blessed is the man that fear∣eth the Lord, that delighteth greatly in his Commandments, his seed shall be mighty upon earth, the generation of the upright shall be blessed, wealth and riches shall be in his house, and his righteousnesse endureth for ever. And to confirm thee in thy confidence, peruse the 6. 7. and 8. verses of the same Psalm. Surely he shall not be moved for ever, the righ∣teous shall be in everlasting remembrance. He shall not be afraid of evil tidings, his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord. His heart is esta∣blished, he shall not be afraid, untill he see his de∣sire upon his enemies.

Thus of the promises, If thou desirest yet further to establish thine assurance; In the next place see and observe the stories of Abraham: Isaac, Jacob, of Joseph, Moses, Mordecay, David, and Hezekiah, And con∣sider how the Lord guided and governed: preserved, and prospered, exalted, and in∣couraged them; together with all his Pro∣phets, and Apostles: and all the godly every where and in all ages. And verily thou shalt finde sufficient cause to say with that discerning Prophet David: The Lord hath pleasure in the prosperity of his servants, Psal. 35. 27.

And lastly, recollect thine own experience, and meditate how graciously the Lord thy God hath dealt by thee in his outwad bles∣sings, and inward consolations: his tender mercies, and fatherly loving-kindnesses: his patience, and long-sufferings: supplying thy severall necessities with sutable com∣forts, preservations, and deliverances: where∣in he hath prevented not onely thy deserts, but often times thy desires also.

And when thou shalt thus walk with thy God in wisdom and singlenesse of heart: Thou shalt finde sufficient in him, and from him to say with that holy Prophet. Return unto thy rest, O my soul, for the Lord

hath dealt bountifully with thee, Psal. 116. 7.

And furthermore to make thee confident, That he shall deliver thee in six troubles: yea in seven there shall no evill touch thee. In fa∣mine he shall redeem thee from death, and in war from the power of the sword, &c. Job 5. 19. to 27.

Thus through ou•• own discreet experi∣ence, the saints exemplary prosperity: And our dear Saviours never-failing promises, as well spiritual as temporal, we shall be sure to meet the full assurance of all, or eve∣ry kinde of happinesse Provided still, that Christ be with, or in us. For where the true Christ is there is assurance. And this assurance always brings in peace.

This is the fifth attendant, that still waits upon the person of our royal Bridegroom, And where Christ is, you cannot want for Peace. He is The mighty God, the everlasting Father: The Prince of Peace, Isa. 9. 6.

But as there is scarce any kingdom, where there are not three self-ended sichophants, for one true-hearted, faithful, loyal sub∣ject. So there are four sorts or kinds of peace: yet onely one that is secure; or safe.

• The first sort of peace, is a sluggish peace.
• The second is a slavish peace.
• The third is a deceitful peace.. And

• The fourth is the safe peace.

The first (I tell you) is a sluggish peace. And this is when a man lies snorting in the filthy bosom of a sinful, corrupt conversa∣tion, without any feeling of Gods fierce wrath, or of his own desperate condition; as being subject even that very instant, to be swallowed up of that most horrible and dreadful gulph of everlasting death, and endlesse torments.

This kinde of sluggish peace is very much illustrated by Jonah his example, in the first Chapter of his history▪ where the Lord commandeth Jonah to go and cry against Nineveh. But Jonah disobeyeth Gods com∣mand, and goeth down to Joppa: where finding a ship bound for Tarshish, he pay∣eth the fare thereof, and goeth down there∣into, to fly unto Tarshish, from the pre∣sence of the Lord. And in the middest of that mighty tempest, whereby the ship is likely to be broken: Jonah is laid fast a sleep in the sides of the ship, until the Ship-ma∣ster rouzeth him up, and soon after casteth him over-board into the raging Ocean. So the Lord commandeth all men every where to repent, Acts 17. 30. He exhorteth us to watch, and to stand fast in the faith, 1 Cor. 16. 13.

And to examine our selves, whether we be in the faith, 2 Cor. 13. 5. Neverthelesse we wilfully rebel against the Lord our God: we do despise his Precepts, and his ex∣hortations: and slighting his Ordinances, we betake our selves unto the sloath∣full cabin of security, we say in our hearts, God hath forgotten: he hideth his face he will never see it. As David speaketh of a wicked person, Psal. 10, 11. And to de∣ceive our selves the more sincerely: we keep at a distance with our own hearts, and make our selves great strangers even at home, in our own consciences, we do evill, and hate the light, neither come we to the light, least our deeds should be reproved. Ac∣cording to that saying of our Saviour, John 3. 20. From whence it proceedeth, that like fools, we go laughing to the correction of the stocks: & never fear the rod, until we feel it.

And thus, with Jonah, we sleep peace∣ably even in the jawes of danger and distresse, and never dreame of our ap∣proaching ruine. Or if at any time the ter∣rours of conscience do hap do seize upon us, and afright us: yet they are but as so many troublesome dreams, we soon forget, and fall a sleep again, untill the day of the Lord cometh, as a thief in the night: And

when we say peace, and safety, then suddain destruction cometh upon us, as travail upon a woman with child, and we shall not escape, as in the 1 Thes. 5. 2, 3. This is the sluggish peace.

The second is a slavish peace; when a man is contented to submit unto the slavery of sin and Satan without endeavouring, or desiring to recover himself out of the snare of the Devill, but is taken captive by him at his will, as, 2 Tim. 2. 26.

To instance in one onely particular. Is it not a sad thing to see how most men and women do more willingly and chearfully serve the Devil every hour in the day; then they will serve God one day in the week? yea and in that day (I mean the Sabbath day, which God hath set apart for his own publick worship) if we shall consider, how few will afford him their presence for one hour, and how many of those few do im∣ploy that hour in wandring thoughts or worse behaviour, rather then in sincere, and pure devotion: verily we shall finde that of the Apostle to be too too true. That even the whole world liveth in wickednesse, 1 John 5. 19. Lieth in wickednesse: not so much as attempting to stir out of it, on to strive a∣gainst it. And is not this to serve God de∣spightfully:

and the Devil obsequiously. Indeed this may seem to be a kinde of pre∣sent peace: but it is very dishonourable, and no lesse dangerous, to hold the Devil in friendship, and God at defiance.

For whilest we do thus promise unto our selves comfort, and security, by siding with Satan, and complying with our own cor∣cuptions: we do betray our most hopeful expectations to all manner of temporal di∣straction: and our poor souls to eternal de∣struction. According to that of the Lord by this Prophet Isaiah, Because ye have said, we have made a covenant with death, and with hell are we at agreement: when the over∣flowing scourge shall passe through, it shall not come unto us: for we have made lies our refuge, and under falshood we have hid our selves, Isa. 28. 15.

Therefore thus saith the Lord: Your covenant with death shall be disanulled, and your a∣greement with hell shall n••t stand: when the everflowing scourge shall passe through, then ye shall be troden down by it. From the time that it goeth forth, it shall take you: for morning by morning shall it passe over by day and by night: and it shall be a vexation onely to un∣derstand the report, Isa. 28. at the 18 and 19 verses.

The third is a deceitful peace: And this is, when a man buildeth his peace upon false foudations: And that either through igno∣rance, or through errour. First through ignorance: as when we either know no danger at all, or else when we do not know our danger to be so great, as in truth it is. When a man knoweth no danger, he fear∣eth no danger: and therefore he is as con∣fident of his own security, as he that is altogether free from danger. And likewise he that conceiveth not his danger to be so great, as in truth it is: albeit he hath not so much peace, as he that is altogether ig∣norant, yet he imagineth that his danger is not so great, as that it requireth much trouble, or travail to prevent or avoid it. But all the sinners of my people shall die by the sword, which say; the evil shall not over∣take, nor prevent us, saith the Lord, Amos 9. 10.

And in the sixth Chapter of the same pro∣phesie, at the third verse, &c. to the eighth: Ye that put far away the evil day, and cause the seat of violence to come near, that lye upon beds of Ivory, and stretch themselves upon their Couches, and eat the Lambs of the flock, and the Calves out of the midst of the stall: that chaunt to the sound of the Viol, and invent to

themselves instruments of Musick, like David: that drunk Wine in bowls, and anoint them∣selves with the chief oyntments: but they are not grieved for the affliction of Joseph. There∣fore now shall they go captive, with the first that go captive, &c.

The second sort of these deluded Souls are such, as ground their peace upon mi∣stakes: perswading themselves that God is, as it were, ingaged to defend, and preserve them: And why? Because, say they, he is mercifull: It is true indeed, the Lord is ve∣ry mercifull: For so he proclaimeth him∣self, Exod. 34. 6, 7.

But what is all that to thee! He will by no means clear the guilty, as in the same 7th. vers. God cannot be so mercifull as to be unjust: his justice must be fully satisfied; which thou art never able to perform. And therefore, un∣lesse the guilt of thy sins be washed away by the bloud of Jesus Christ: thou hast no present interest in Gods mercy. Thou art still in thy wickednesse. And the wicked are like the troubled Sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt. There is no peace (saith my God) to the wicked, Isa. 57. 20, 21.

Now every one of these three sorts of peace is such a judgement, as exposeth us to Gods just wrath, and indignation.

For he that blesseth himself in his heart, say∣ing, I shall have peace, though I walk in the imagination of my heart, to add drunkennesse to thirst. The Lord will not spare him: but then the anger of the Lord, and his jealousie shall smoak against that man, &c. Deut. 29. 19, 20.

But the fourth sort of peace, is a safe peace. And this is that, which doth insepa∣rably attend upon the person of our Lord. And for our better understanding, and sa∣tisfaction in this particular, we must know, that this true peace must be grounded upon the assurance of that reconciliation, which God in Christ hath concluded between him∣self and us. For it pleased the father that in him should all fulnesse dwell: And (having made peace through the bloud of his Crosse) by him to reconcile all things unto himself: by him (I say) whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. And you that were some∣times alienated, and enemies in your minde by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled, in the bodie of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable, and unreproveable in his sight, Colos. 1. 19, 20, 21, 22.

Now, whosoever hath been formerly sen∣sible of that great emnity, that was between God on the one part: And his own corrupt

sinfull nature, and conversation on the o∣ther part. And is now fully satisfied, and assured by a lively faith: That God was thus in Christ reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them. As likewise the same Apostle, 2 Corinth. 5. 19. That Soul, I say, may confidently boast: that she injoyes a safe and solid peace: For that she is joyned unto the Lord of Hosts in an offensive, and defensive league. And is thereby impowred, both to fight the good fight of faith, and so to lay hold on eternal life, as at 1 Tim. 6. 12.

And also to resist the Devil, and to make him flee, as James 4. 7. By which we may perceive that this true peace consisteth not in an absolute freedom from war: but in the assurance of Gods Almighty favour and protection. Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose minde is stayed on thee; because he trusteth in thee, saith that Prophet unto the Lord, Isa. 26. 3.

Not such a perfect peace, as feeleth no in∣terruption: but such a perfect peace, as fear∣eth no dissolution. He shall not be moved for ever, saith the Psalmist, Psal. 112. 6.

He may be moved by some violent in∣counter: But it will not be long, before he returneth unto his resting place. Doubtlesse,

it maketh much for Gods glory to exercise his Souldiers in a continual warfare: That so he may make bare his own holy arm in the eyes of all the Nations: and that all the ends of the earth may see the salvation of our God, as Isa. 52. 10. Verily the godly, nor are, nor ever shall be without adversaries.

Neither do they wrestle onely against flesh and bloud, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darknesse of this world, against spiritual wickednesse in high places: wherefore they take unto them the whole armour of God, that they may be able to withstand in the evil day, according to Saint Paul's direction, Eph. 6. 12, 13.

And in truth, the servant of Jesus Christ is still more doubtfull of some intestine treachery, then of any forraign invasion: And therefore he keepeth his heart with all diligence, according to that word of com∣mand, Prov. 4. 23. He placeth a strong cen∣tury in that center. And for his outworks: He walketh righteously, and speaketh uprightly, he despiseth the gain of oppressions, and shaketh his hands from holding of bribes, he stoppeth his ears from hearing of bloud, and shutteth his eyes from seeing evil: according to those safe po∣stures, Isa. 33. 15.

And therefore he shall dwell on high, his

place of defence shall be the munitions of rocks, bread shall be given him, his waters shall be sure. His eye shall see the King in his beauty, they shall behold the land that is very far off, verse 16. 17.

Briefly thus: He shall rest securely, and fare sufficiently: He shall see the King in his Majesty, and travail safely under his prote∣ction.

And in every conflict he is sure of con∣quest: I can do all things through Christ, which strenghteneth me, saith he with St. Paul, Phil. 4. 13.

And therefore with the Prophet David he likewise concludeth: saying, I will love the Lord my strength: The Lord is my Rock, and my fortresse, and my deliverer; my God, my strength in whom I will trust, my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high Tower, &c. Psal. 18. 1. &c.

This is the godly mans garrison, and it is invincible: And in this confidence. I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep, (saith he) for thou Lord onely makest me dwell in safety, as in Psal. 4. 8.

This indeed is a safe peace: Such a peace, as passeth all understanding: And he be∣longeth to our Saviours guard: For he shall keep our hearts and mindes through Christ Je∣sus,

Philip. 4. 7. And where this peace is quartered, he provides to entertain his plea∣sant partner joy: This is a compleat Cour∣tier, whose office most properly proclaims his Prince his presence, Psal. 16. 11.

But being of that frolick disposition, he is much mistaken, and as much abused, by some that seem to be his fellow servants: For you shall hardly meet with one in for∣ty, but is deceived in this particular; which we shall very easily maintain, when we shall finde, there are five sorts of joy, whereof the first is a cursed joy: The second is a counterfeit joy: The third is a carelesse joy: The fourth is a carnal joy: And the fifth is a compleat joy. The first, I say, is a cursed joy. And this is when a man rejoyceth in any evil, either against God, or his Neigh∣bour: Their Soul delighteth in their abomina∣tions, saith the Lord, Isa. 66. 3. Every sin hath some sweetnesse, wherewith it delight∣eth the Souls of the wicked: And the De∣vil, who is a strict observer of all our acti∣ons, is thereby so well acquainted with our several inclinations, that he will hardly lose his opportunity, to present us with such sen∣sual objects, and such suteable assistants, as will most easily allure us, and as easily carry us on to a cursed conclusion.

If Absalom delighteth in ambition, and will ascend thereunto by an unnatural con∣spiracie: he shall neither want for councel∣lers, nor confederates, 2 Sam. 15.

If Ahab delighteth in the commodious∣nesse of his Neighbours inheritance: he shall not want for the furtherance of a bloudy wife, of false witnesses, or of corrupt Magi∣strates, as 1 King. 21.

If Judas delighteth in covetousnesse, he shall have a bribe to betray his Master, and the malicious chief Priests, & Captains shall be as glad to give him money, as he is to re∣ceive it, Luke 22. 4, 5.

Or if Herod delighteth in vain-glory, he shall have enough to cry him up, Acts 12. 22.

All these, together with many others, at∣tained unto their several purposes and plea∣sures: I cannot say that they injoyed them (though they rejoyced in them) For there∣withall they verified Zophars proverb: The triumphing of the wicked is short, and the joy of the Hypocrite, but for a moment, Job 20. 5. Verily it is a cursed joy, that endeth in dam∣nation: and such is the reward of all those, that have pleasure in unrighteousnesse, 2 Thes. 2. 12.

And therefore, let those idolatrous Isra∣elites sit down to eat, and to drink, and rise

up to play, Exod. 32. 6. unto their shame, verse 25.

And let those insulting Philistines, when their hearts are merry, call for Sampson out of the prison-house, to make them sport, Jud. 16. 25. unto their destruction, verse 30.

Yet Moses will chose rather to suffer afflicti∣on with the people of God, then to enjoy the plea∣sures of sin for a season, as Hebr. 11. 25.

And Job will protest against rejoicing at the destruction of them that hated him, Job 31. 29.

It is a hard matter to perswade scorners, not to delight in scorning, as Prov. 1. 22.

And evil men, not to rejoyce to do evil, as Prov. 2. 14.

And fools, not to make it their sport to do mischief, as Prov. 10. 23.

But these are infallible signs: That they do not joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have received the atonement: Ac∣cording to the practice of the Saints, Rom. 5. 11.

And so consequently they do not love the Lord Jesus Christ: And if any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathe∣ma Maranatha. Let him be accursed, or had in execration, even unto the death, saith the holy Ghost by St. Paul, 1 Corinth. 16. 22.

The second is a counterfeit joy: And this is, when a man seemeth outwardly to be merry: whereas inwardly, and in truth his heart is sorrowfull. This is to put a good face upon a bad case. To sing songs to a heavy heart, saith Solomon, Prov. 25. 20.

And in another place, he compareth the fained laughter of a fool, to the crackling of thorns under a pot: where the noise is more offensive, then the heat is beneficial, Ec∣cles. 7. 6.

Sometimes this counterfeit mirth is very hurtfull, and injurious unto others: For as a mad man, who casteth fire-brands, arrows, and death. So is the man that deceiveth his Neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport? Prov. 26. 18, 19. Sometimes it is more hurtfull un∣to our selves: For it contradicteth the cry of an accusing conscience, which otherwise might happily perswade us to a godly sor∣row, working repentance unto salvation not to be repented of, like that in St. Paul, 2 Cor. 7. 10.

But at the best, it is both preposterous in the use, and uncomfortable in the end. For even in laughter the heart is sorrowfull; and the end of that mirth is heavinesse, Pro. 14. 13. The third is a carelesse joy, when a man will rejoyce at every trifle: when a man re∣joyceth

in a thing of nought, as the Prophet speaketh, Amos 6. 13. Yea, folly is joy to him, that is destitute of wisdom, saith the wise man, Prov. 15. 21. Of this sort are they, that will be merry meerly for company sake: but nothing according to St. Paul's exhortati∣on, Rom. 12. 15. For albeit, they will re∣joyce, with all that rejoyce: yet they will not weep with any that weep. Neither will they rejoyce, either with godly men, or in a godly matter, or after a godly manner: ac∣cording unto Pauls intention. And there∣fore we may say with St. James: All such re∣joycing is evil, Ja. 4. 16.

And as it is evil, so it is also unsafe. They take the Timbril and Harp, and rejoyce at the sound of the Organ: They spend their dayes in mirth, and in a moment go down to the grave, Job 21. 12, 13. They die in the midst of their jollity: And whither then? Verily to judgement: Rejoyce, O young man, in thy youth, and let thy heart cheer thee in the dayes of thy youth, and walk in the wayes of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes: but know thou, that for all these things, God will bring thee into judgement, Eccles. 11. 9.

Yet this is but the beginning of sorrows. The Harp, and Viol, the Tabret, and Pipe, and wine are in their feasts: but they regard not

the work of the Lord, neither consider the ope∣ration of his hands, saith the Prophet, Isa. 5. 12.

There is their carelesse mirth. Therefore Hell hath inlarged her self, and opened her mouth without measure: and their glorie, and their multitude, and their pomp, and he that rejoyceth shall descend into it, verse 14.

There is their endlesse misery.

The fourth is a carnal joy: As when a man rejoyceth, or taketh delight in such things, as are meerly carnal: such things as are altogether pleasing to the flesh, and no lesse displeasing unto God. Such are all im∣pure, lustfull, idle, envious, malitious, am∣bitious, treacherous, covetous, proud, or blasphemous thoughts. All flattering, fool∣ish, filthy, lewd, lying, prophane, prejuditi∣ous, or provoking words. Together with all ungodly, unjust, injurious, uncharitable and dishonest actions.

And whosoever delighteth in these, or in any one of these: it is evident that his joy is carnal, sensual, and sinfull.

Secondly, this carnal joy doth manifest it self by rejoycing carnally, and sensually in things that are otherwise indifferent, as be∣ing usefull, and beneficial for the managing or carrying on the affairs of this life. As

when the wise man glorieth or rejoyceth in his wisdom, the mighty man in his might: or the rich man in his riches, or the like, which God forbiddeth, Jer. 9. 23. Thus great Goliath boasted in his strength, 1 Sam. 17. 10. Benhadad of his forces, 1 Kings 20. 10. Rab∣shakeh of his victories, 2 Kings 18. 35. Ha∣nan of his advancement, Esther 5. 11. The Pharisee of his works, Luke 18. 22. And Pi∣late of his power, John 19. 10. And in all these the words of James were verified: They rejoyced in their boastings, all such rejoy∣cing is evill, James 4. 16.

And thirdly it is by this carnall joy that we rejoyce in spirituall things after a car∣nal manner: or to the satisfying of the flesh by any present of future commodity or in∣joyment whatsoever.

As for example, when we do delight to professe religion: to hear Gods holy word; or to partake in any other of his Ordinan∣ces, either for custom, curiosity, lucre, or pride, preferment or vain-glory.

Doubtlesse it was in reference to these, or some of these: or the like indirect in∣tents, or purposes: That Herod heard John gladly, Mar. 6. 20. And soon after command∣ed him to be beheaded, verse 27.

And that the Jewes were willing for a

season to rejoyce in his light, John 5. 35.

And yet walked in darknesse, and igno∣rance, and unbelief neverthelesse, verse 37. 28.

That Simon the sorcerer would have pur∣chased the gift of the holy Ghost, Acts 8. 13.

And was therefore reproved for an hy∣pocrite, verse 21. And that such hearers, as our Lord resembleth to the seed that fell upon the rock: receive the word with joy, and in time of temptation do fall away, Luke 8. 13.

Verily, it were much to be desired, that all such false time-servers, and self-servers were separated now from Gods true saints: that so we might discover, love, and honour the Lords true Members with a safer con∣science.

Christians: let us not deceive our selves, whosoever delighteth in any such thoughts, words, or works, as are meerly carnal, or re∣joyceth in common, or indifferent good things sensually, or carnally, or in spiritual things in order unto these, or any of these, foresaid, or any the like carnall ends, or purposes: I say his joy is carnal, or hy∣pocritical, For these are the abortives, the unseasonable, and unsanctified conceptions of a carnal minde: And therefore contrary to the Spirit of God.

For to be carnally minded is death, Because the carnall minde is enmity against God, for it is not subject to the law of God neither indeed can be, saith our Apostle, Rom. 8. 6. 7.

But the fift is a compleat joy.

And this is always in our Saviours pre∣sence. In his presence is fulnesse of joy, &c. Psal. 16. 11. And truly this most happy kinde of joy, is not so much external or ex∣tream; as it is both internal, and eternal.

For albeit, A merry heart maketh a cheer∣full countenance, as saith the wise man, Pro. 15. 13.

And the Prophet David exhorteth all lands, To make a joyfull noise unto the Lord, to serve him with gladnesse, and to come be∣fore his presence with singing, as Psal. 100. 1. 2.

Yet these joyful expressions are but the indices or evidences of a more joyful heart, For this true christian joy is mainly spiri∣tual, and effectual: very answerable unto the fountain from whence it proceedeth, and the Object upon which it is placed, and both these are the same God in Christ.

For whosoever can derive his joy from God in Christ reconciling the world unto himself: he is likewise able to place his joy upon God in Christ: and rateably upon all those Gospel mercies, which as mediatour

he hath procured, and purchased for the sons of men.

And these Gospel mercies are of two sorts; first, such as are spiritual in nature; and secondly, such as are spirituallized by grace.

Those Gospel mercies which are spiritu∣all in their own nature: are such, as are of∣fered, and evidenced, and sealed unto us by the Spirit of God: And which we do ap∣prehend, imbrace, and apply, and rely upon spiritually by Faith.

Those that are spirituallized by grace; are such as are common to all mankinde, upon the account of a generall dispensati∣on, or distribution: But are received, in∣joyed, and imployed, onely by the children of God after a spiritual manner. And all these mercies, whether they be spiritual, or spirituallized, are to be rejoyced in spiri∣tually: According to the exhortations, ex∣amples, and incouragements of our blessed Saviour, and his dear saints, by the Testi∣mony of his most holy Spirit.

The first spiritual mercy, which is also the first Object of a christians joy, is our Election. This our L••rd Jesus Christ exhort∣eth us to rejoyce in: Rejoyce not (saith he) that the spirits are subject unto you: but rather

rejoyce because your names are written in hea∣ven, Luke 10. 20.

The second is our Redemption: Look up, and lift up your heads: for your redemption draweth nigh, saith our Redeemer himself, Luke 21. 28.

This is celebrated with a new song by all Gods elect, both under the old, and new Testaments, as Reve. 5. 8, 9. The third is our effectual calling and conversion, ma∣nifested by our true Repentance: For which, If there be joy in heaven, as, Luke 15. 7.

How much more ought we also to rejoyce on earth, who do continually injoy the be∣nefit thereof. The fourth is our Justifica∣tion, Be of good cheer, thy sins be forgiven thee, saith our Saviour to the man sick of the palsie, Mat. 9. 2. This was the matter of Saint Pauls triumph, who shall lay any thing to the charge of Gods elect (saith he) it is God that justifieth who is he that condemneth, it is Christ that died, yea rather that is risen again, &c. Rom. 8. 33, 34.

And in another place, O death where is thy sting? O grave where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who hath given us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ,

1 Cor. 15. 55, 56, 57. Who hath given us the victory: by justifying us both against sin, and the law. The fifth Object of our joy is our sanctification, Let thy saints rejoyce in goodnesse, This was part of Solomons prayer. And it was Pauls profession: our rejoycing (saith he) is this, the testimony of our consci∣ence, that in simplicity, and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, 2 Cor. 1. 12.

The sixth is our Salvation, This was the matter of good Hannas joy. And Hanna pray∣ed and said, my heart rejoyceth in the Lord, mine horn is exalted in the Lord: my mouth is inlarged over mine enemies: because I re∣joyce in thy salvation, 1 Sam. 2. 1.

And of Davids rejoycing, I will rejoyce in thy salvation, saith he, Psal. 9. 14.

And thus do all the godly in all ages, with joy draw water out of the wels of sal∣vation, Isa. 12. 3. The seventh Gospel mercy that we are to rejoyce in is Gods Ordinan∣ces: I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house ef the Lord, saith holy David, Psal. 12▪ 2. 1. And wherefore should David go into the house of the Lord, but to partake of his Ordinances? But principal∣ly we are to rejoyce in the word of God:

the voice of Christ in his Gospel. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full, saith the Son of God, John 15. 11. The eighth is the faithful ministery, together with the lawful portions thereunto belonging.

For thus the Jews whom God had made to rejoyce with great joy, &c. Nehe. 12. 43. At that time were some appointed over the chambers for the treasures, for the offerings, for the first fruits, and for the tythes, to gather into them out of the fields of the cities, the portions of the law (or appointed by the law) for the Priests, and Levites: For Judah rejoyced for the Priests, and for the Levites that waited, verse 44.

But especially the Ministery of the Gospel is to be rejoyced in, As it is written: How beautifull are the feet of them that preach the Gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things, Rom. 10. 15.

And the ninth spiritual blessing is faith, by which we are inabled to believe, that these, And all other Gospel mercies are trea∣sured up for us, and given out unto us, in, and by our Lord Jesus Christ: whom having not seen, ye love, in whom though now ye see him not, yet believing ye rejoyce with joy un∣speakable and full of glory, saith that Apo∣stle, 1 Pet. 1. 8.

And St. Paul prayeth. Now the God of all hope (saith he) fill you with all joy and peace in believing, Rom. 15. 13. These are such Gospel mercies as are principally spiritual. For they are either the assistants, or the as∣surance or the substance of our spiritual and eternall happinesse: And therefore much to be rejoyced in. Those that are spi∣rituallized, are such things, as are common in their own nature, and do more eminent∣ly concern, the pilgrimage of this our pre∣sent life, as being the providences, and pro∣visions pertaining thereunto. And they may all be referred unto these two generall heads: Namely Prosperity, and Adversity.

These are the two large arms of provi∣dence: with our God stretcheth over all his creatures. And in both these the righteous man rejoyceth.

First, his joy is more general: As when the Object thereof is the prosperity of Gods Church, according to that sweet incourage∣ment. Rejoyce ye with Jerusalem, and be glad with her, all ye that love her, rejoyce for joy with her all ye that mourn for her: that ye may suck, and be satisfied with the breasts of her consolation: that ye may milk out, and be de∣lighted with the abundance of her glory, Isa. 66. 10, 11.

Secondly, the joy of the godly is more particular, as when it reflecteth upon those things, that do more properly conduce to their own private prosperity. Such are their preservations and deliverances: I will be glad, and rejoyce in thy mercy; for thou hast considered my trouble, thou hast known my soul in adversities: Thou hast not shut me up in the hand of the enemy: thou hast set my feet in a large room, saith the Prophet David unto the Lord, Psal. 31. 7, 8.

And in the 32 Psalm verse 7. Thou art my hiding place, thou shalt preserve me from trouble: thou shalt compasse me about with songs of deliverance, saith the same sweet singer of Israel. Secondly the succesfull return of their prayers is the cause of their joy or re∣joycing. Ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full, saith our Lord and Saviour, John 16. 24.

But we have yet more particular, and present Objects of our joy.

• As first our wives, live joyfully with the wife, whom thou lovest, all the dayes of the life of thy vanity, saith the Preacher, Eccl. 9. 9.
• Secondly, our children: Thus Sara rejoyced in the child, that God had given her, Gen. 21. 6.
• Thirly, our families, and friends, and all the good gifts of God.

Thou shult rejoyce in every good thing, which the Lord thy God hath given unto thee, and unto thine house, thou and the Levite, and the stranger that is among you, Deut. 26. 11.

But you will say, do not all men rejoyce in these necessary, and convenient comforts of this life? The Reprobate as well as the Righteous? They do indeed, but their af∣fections differ, as much as their profession, or their practice. The natural mans joy spends it self upon some supposed excellen∣cy in the Creatures: As their usefulnesse, their beauty, their bravery, their pleasure, profit, preferment, or the like carnal cause of commendations. Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for the house of the Kingdom, by the might of my power, and for the honour of my Majestie, saith King Nebuchad-nezzar, Dan. 4. 30. But they do not rejoyce in them as they are Gospel mercies, gifts of grace, for they scorne to own them as anothers purchace: and they will have, & hold them, and desire no favour.

But the spiritual man rejoyceth not so much in the goodnesse of the Creature, as in the goodnesse of the Creator: Not in the gift, but in the giver. He deriveth his in∣terest in all good things, from the just pur∣chace of his Lord, and Master: He owns

them as the blessings of his God, and pledges of more large and lasting favours. And he is carefull to dispose them to the glory of his Patron, and Protectour.

He sees his God in all that he injoyes, and so commends them to his gratefull Soul, as Gospel mercies spiritualliz'd by grace. But yet this spiritual joy is not compleat, unlesse it smiles upon adversity.

What (saith Job) shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil? Job 2. 10. Or shall we rejoyce in prosperi∣ty onely, and shall we not rejoyce in adver∣sity also? Shall we bewayl Gods fatherly corrections? Then surely 'tis for want of exercise. No chastening for the present seem∣eth to be joyons, but grievous: neverthelesse, af∣terward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righ∣teousnesse to them that are exercised thereby, Hebr. 12. 11.

Verily, it is Gods good pleasure to keep his Saints in the continual exercise of affli∣ctions, that so they may be able to run, and not be weary, and walk, and not faint, as Isa. 40. 31. Thus he dealt with Paul, and the rest of his Apostles: Till Paul was able to take pleasure in infirmities, in reproches, in ne∣cessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christs sake, 2 Cor. 12. 10.

And other of the Apostles to rejoyce: That they were counted worthie to suffer shame for the name of Christ, Acts 5. 41.

Wherefore, my brethren, count it all joy, when ye fall into divers temptations, &c. Ja. 1. 2. &c.

And the Apostle Peter. Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fierie tryal which is to trie you, as though some strange thing hapned unto you: But rejoice, in as much as ye are par∣takers of Christs sufferings: that when his glo∣rie shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy, 1 Pet. 4. 12, 13. And thus the Saints afflictions become the objects of their joy, as Gospel mercies. And through these passages their joy becometh a joy unspeak∣able, and full of glory, as 1 Pet. 1. 8. And not a compleat, or a full joy onely: but fulnesse of joy, as Psal. 16. 11. These six at∣tendants ordinarily live in the presence of our Lord Christ Jesus: New Life, true Light, and sound Humility, Gospel Assurance, safe Peace, compleat Joy. Which, when the Soul deliberately findeth, she is confirmed, she hath found her Lord.