Of the internal and eternal nature of man in Christ.:

OF THE Internal and Eternal Nature of Man in Christ.

REader, J would advise you out of my love to read this follow∣ing Discourse, soberly and warily, and above all to remember, that Wisdom is justified of her Children.

1. WHen through the fire of Repentance we get into the Spirit of Mary the Virgin, the Bride in our Souls, and are falling be∣fore Christs feet the Bridegroom, we

taste of the Love that through Faith God presents us with, which we find experimentally true when ever we make tryal of the same; yet the Bridegroom will never admit of any to come to such a communion with him, but the Bride only, who cometh through fire to drink of the living Waters, into the inward society of Love; for then there is no more a comprehension, but a divine commu∣nion and union through faith. 1 Joh. 4.16, 17. And we have known and beleeved the love that God hath to us: God is love, and he that dwelleth in love, dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of Judgment, because as he is, so are we in this world. And thus we find the

saying true, My yoke is easie and my burthen is light; whereby we are made likewise to live one with ano∣ther, in the unity of love and the bond of peace, as well as within our selves, finding the beasts of the field, who lived before in enmity, living now in Noahs Ark in perfect amity, in our hearts.

2. O take heed of stifling in your souls the light which leads you to the discovery of your selves. Look but in your consciences, and 'twill enlighten every corner and crany thereof; but doubt not, neither fear to look upon those Images it will infallibly manifest to your soul.

3. Herein is all the policy the Devil hath, to keep you from looking inge∣niously and candidly into your

selves; Knowing he hath no other way but to blind you therein, where∣by to continue you under his domi∣nion: for if once you do discern the hideous Monsters and Sorcerers he doth delude you with as natural men, you will never take more pleasure in them; but his art is to disguise them, and make them seem otherwise then they are; and he is terribly afraid a∣bove all measure you should know you have the Word in your Souls, lest it should come into your hearts. John 1.4.5. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shined in darkness, and the darkness compre∣hended it not.

4. O take heed, Christ is a Lamb slain from the begining of the world, and is come into the world in our ve∣ry

nature and humanity, onely to suffer, and make peace through the Blood of his Cross, but to tell us also that he is the light and life in our Consciences. Colos. 1. vers. 26, 27, 28. Even the Mystery which hath been hid from ages, and from ge∣nerations, but now is made manifest to his Saints, To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this Mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of Glory: Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.

5. Man is fallen into death; he hath awakened the spirit of all creatures in him, of a Fox, a Lion, a Goat, a Swine, &c. Here is the death we are

fallen into, and to these we must ab∣solutely dye in this life-time, and be∣come as little children again; then shall we see the Law of Moses written in our hearts, and find the Lamb slain from the beginning of the world: and if upon the discovery of this divine light, ye repent; then shall you fulfil in your selves the great Mystery, and through the mighty power of faith, witness Christ risen a quickening Spirit in your hearts: Then you shall evidence it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual bo∣dy; there is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body: and so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living Soul, the last man Adam a quickening Spirit. Now if we look into our selves through the power of God, we

shall see our selves, that we were a li∣ving soul, free from the subjection of the spirits of the beasts of the world; and if through the virtue and merit of Christ, we co-operate with him spi∣ritually, we shall find our selves be∣come a quickened spirit, dead unto these natural, corruptible desires. And thus shall we easily beleeve the Son of God was slain himself in our huma∣nity, by the Jews, if we do but reflect on our selves, and find that we slay him in our hearts dayly as sinners, unless we Regenerate our souls; then are our sacrifices no more the sacrifices of Cain, but of Abel: 1 John 3. v. 6, 8. Whosoever abideth in him, sinneth not: Whosoever sinneth, hath not seen him, neither known him.

He that committeth sin is of the Devil, for the Devil sinneth from the beginning: for this purpose the Son of God was manifest, that he might destroy the works of the Devil. And our freedom is in Righteousness. But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the Mother of us all, Gal. 4.26. But as then he that was born af∣ter the flesh, persecuted him that was born after the spirit, even so it is now. Read likewise the duty of the children of the Spirit, Chap. 5. v. 22, 23, 24, 25. But the fruit of the Spirit is Love, Joy, Peace, Long-suffering, Gentle∣ness, Goodness, Faith, Meekness, Temperance: against such there is no Law. And they that are Christs have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit,

let us also walk in the spirit.

6. Prepare therefore for him, and go out of darkness, which hinders you from seeing him, lest he come like a Thief in the night, whilest you live in your unbelief, worshipping of Images in your own wisdom and imagination only, denying the pre∣sence of God, which is continually so neer you. Acts 17.17.28. That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us. For in him we live, and move, and have our being, as certain also of your own Poets have said, For we are also his off-spring.

7. O prevent these things; lest Christ, the Sun of Righteousness, when your Soul after death shall rise

out of your worldly will and fancy, committing Idolatry with your own wisdoms, and excluding the wisdom of God; he will then make all things manifest and apparent at his coming, shewing you your miserie, by the Holy Ghost the Spirit of Truth, at which time your soul will lose the harmonie and virtue of the light of Christ.

8. One Adam was created a living soul, and another must become a quickning Spirit; now the Virgin-fire that is in every mans soul, must con∣sume all its wisdom and its selfishness, which it hath got by falling from the Will of God, and Regenerate the same: The mortification of the bo∣dy is onely in order to that work; here nothing but the Virgin-fire of

faith can prevail, the wisdom of man is foolishness before God. This is the single Talent that is given to every man; but if he bury the same in the ground, it is given to him that hath ten Talents; tis the light in every mans conscience, which according to its proportion would augment it self; but the slothful servant saith this is very difficult to do, to mor∣tifie the body, and Regenerate the soul entirely likewise. Who can do this? can this ever be done in this life? sure I am it must be done before we can possess Heaven, no impure and undefiled thing can enter there: then if a man may do it when he dies, why not an hour before? if an hour before, why not an year before? &c. It is true, the Cherubins stand∣eth

here with a flaming sword. Gen. 3. v. 24. So he drove out the man: and he placed at the East of the Gar∣den of Eden, Cherubins, and a flam∣ing Sword, which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life. And till Christ be formed in us Gal. 4.19. My little children of whom I travel in birth again, until Christ be formed in you. This work cannot be done but then we shall see him through faith. Ephes. 3.17 18, 19. That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith, that ye being rooted and ground∣ed in Love, may be able to comprehend with all Saints, what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height: And to know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge, that ye may be filled with all the fulness of God. Whereby we

comprehend him and find him to be a consuming fire, Heb. 12.29. For our God is a consuming fire. 1 John 3. v. 6, 7, 8, 9. Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth, hath not seen him, neither known him. Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doth righteousness is righ∣teous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the Devil, for the Devil sinneth from the beginning: for this purpose the Son of God was mani∣fested, that he might destroy the works of the Devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin: for his seed remaineth in him, and he cannot sin because he is born of God. And chap. 5.18. We know that whosoever is born of God sineth not: but he that is be∣gotten of God keepeth himself, and

that wicked one toucheth him not.

8. And this is the great love which he hath shewed us, in giving us this pearl, whereby we are made partakers of his Divine Nature, enabling us to be as Gods with him to all Eternity, Psal. 82.6. I have said, ye are Gods; and all of you are children of the most High. And also 1 John 3. v. 1, 2, 3, Behold what manner of love the Fa∣ther hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the Sons of God: ther∣fore the world knoweth us not because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the Sons of God, and it doth not yet appear, what we shall be: but we know, that when we shall appear, we shal be like him: for we shal see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him, purifieth himself even as he is

pure. But to do this you must get into the Cross, the Virgin fire, to the Bride, else there is no coming to the Bridegroom. For this is the Saints Prerogative, the true Purgatory, 1 Pet. 4.12. Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery Tryal, which is to try you, as though some strange thing hapned unto you.

10. O let us take up but this Cross dayly, and we shall enter into the Holy, where Christ the onely true High Priest will live in our hearts, making continual Sacrifices, enlightening our souls, and reduc∣ing our knowledg into practise. For this is the Fathers will, that we taste of his wrath, and that suffering with his Son for well doing patiently, we may find him appeasing our souls: this

is divine reason whereby Christ is known in the spirit, in the new-birth; for by the wisdom of man we cannot comprehend him, he is in∣comprehensible, he is only known in the spirit by his power and vertue, where he revealeth himself. Luk. 10.21. In that hour Jesus rejoyced in spi∣rit, and said, J thank thee O Father, Lord of Heaven and Earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so Father, for so it seemed good in thy sight. 1 Cor. 1.17.18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31. For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the Gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the Cross of Christ should be made of none effect. For the preaching of

the Cross is to them that perish, foolishness: but unto us which are saved, it is the Power of God. For it is written, I will destroy the wis∣dom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the pru∣dent. Where is the wise? where is the Scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? For after that, in the wisdom of God, the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching, to save them that beleeve. For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom. But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling block, and unto the Greeks foolishness: But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ

the Power of God, and the Wisdom of God. Because the foolishness of God is wiser then men: and the weakness of God is stronger then men. For ye see your calling brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not ma∣ny mighty, not many noble are called. But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world, to confound the wise: and God hath chosen the weak things of the world, to confound the things which are mighty: And base things of the world, and things which are despised hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are, That no flesh should glory in his presence. But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and Sancti∣fication, and Redemption: That

according as it is writen, He that glo∣rieth let him glory in the Lord. Chap. 2. v. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11. And J, brethren, when J came to you, came not with excellency of speech, or of wisdom, declaring unto you the Testi∣mony of God. For J determined not to know any thing among you, save Je∣sus Christ, and him crucified. And J was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech, and my preaching was not with entising words of mans wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit, and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the Power of God. Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the Princes of this world, that come

to nought: But we speak the Wisdom of God in a mystery: even the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the world, unto our glory. Which none of the Princes of this World knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither hath entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his spirit: for the spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man know∣eth the things of a man, save the spi∣rit of man which is in him? Even so the things of God knoweth no man but the spirit of God. And read like∣wise, Heb. 8.10.11. For this is the Cove∣nant

that J will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord: J will put my Laws into their mind, and write them in their hea ts, and J will be unto them a God, and they shall be unto me a people. And they shall not teach every man his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest. And 1 Joh. 2.26, 27. These things have J written unto you concerning them that seduce you. But the anointing which ye have received of him, abideth in you: and ye need not that any man teach you: but, as the same anointing teach∣eth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lye: and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. Also 2 Pet. 1.19. We have also a

more sure word of Prophesie, where∣unto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day Star arise in your hearts.

Thus it is apparent we have a light within our selves, better then any candles of our own wisdom, namely, the wisdom of Christ; a day star, that the Apostle directs us to; and that the way to know Christ, and the only way, is, by the inward unction, the Baptism of the Spirit. Now when our soul receives a glance or beam of Gods wrath, thereby it reflects on its fall, and sin is made manifest to our con∣sciences, wherby we are overwhelm∣ed with sorrow & grief for a time. For where the entire will of sin is pierced quite through by repentance, and so

opened and searcht, there the anoint∣ing Oyl of Love, penetrateth and healeth all the wounds. Thus the Father Baptizeth, the Son Sanctifi∣eth, and the Holy Ghost Ordereth All, and directeth us to a new Life. This is the manner wherewith the Holy Trinity Baptizeth in its Mani∣festations in Man. Now beyond and besides this is the Trinity it self, God in one only Good. Where we do not affirm that the Father is wrath the Son this or that thing, but the good being in himself: But according to the great Mystery before named in the fourth Paragraph, wherein he doth manifest himself. For the crea∣tion of man was made to this end and purpose only, namely, that God might be known. Thus you may

understand the Baptism of Regene∣ration in the inward spring and fountain of the soul, where the Father Baptizeth with fire, where∣by we are inwardly made sensible of the bitter sufferings of Christ, 2 Cor. chap. 11. v. 5. For as the suffe∣rings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. So that we are brought into bondage and slavery & afflicted by wrath, that we may be freed by Love, who pacifieth the same, whereby we are likewise made apprehensive of obtaining a victory. Thus the soul is wounded by the wrath of God, healed by the Love of God, and by the Holy Ghost the comforter, baptized with a new life and understanding. I speak not a∣gainst the outward Baptism of water,

cause Christ himself used the same, provided it be used as a Figure onely of this. Now when we are thus bap∣tized, we are often in communion with God, eating his body and drink∣ing his blood: and it were well if up∣on this accompt we met at the Sup∣per of the Lord, breaking bread day∣ly, Joh. 6.33. For the bread of God is he which cometh down from Heaven, and giveth life unto the world. And Vers. 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58. J am that bread of life. Your Fathers did eat Manna in the wilderness, and are dead. This is the bread which cometh down from Hea∣ven, that a man may eat thereof, and not dye. J am the living bread, which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shal live for ever:

and the bread that J will give, is my flesh, which J will give for the life of the world.

Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, J say unto you, Except ye eate the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Who so eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood hath eternal life, and J will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink in∣deed. He that eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and J in him. As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat Manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live for

ever. And vers. 63, 64, 65. It is the Spirit that quickneth, the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you they are Spirit, and they are life. But there are some of you that beleeve not. For Jesus knew from the begin∣ing, who they were that beleeved not, and who should betray him. And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. But this spiritual Resurrection, this spiritual Baptism and Supper of the Lord, (Joh. 5.21, 25. Verily, verily J say un∣to you, He that heareth my words, and beleeveth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation, but is passed from death unto life. Verily, verily J say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when

the dead shall hear the voyce of the Son of God; and they that heare shall live) is that which Lucifer defaceth and bringeth into contempt in the very hearts of men, by en∣deavouring to make them beleeve this to be a Fancy, or else to neg∣lect and put off the time, whereby the great Mystery of Christ is over∣ruled and trampled upon: which he cannot help, unless, together with him, we sink down into the Cross, the wrath of God; then the light shineth in our hearts, and by that means we see our fall, our danger, and our Redeemers great love and mercy. Luk. 13. v. 34. O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the Prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee, how often would I have gather∣ed

thy children together, as a Hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not? Here indeed is the unspeakable Mystery, that Christ in whom the Trinity dwelleth bodily, (Colos. 2. vers. 9. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the God-head bodily) should take upon him our nature, and suffer therein a reproachful life and ignominious death, by the Prince of the world, the Prince of the air, for the Redemption of mankind, and that the same Christ should be manifested himself through faith in the mystical Body of his Saints, whereby he form∣eth himself in us, out of himself, that so he may be brought into an Image, thereby to know himself: 2 Cor. 3.18. But we all with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are chan∣ged

into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. Therefore praying that our Lord Je∣sus, would establish and strengthen us, I will name some Texts, where∣by we are commanded to suffer with him, without which we cannot raign with him. 2 Tim. 3.12. Yea and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. 2 Tim. 2.11. It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him. Verse 12. If we suffer, we shall also raign with him; if we de∣ny him, he will also deny us. Luke 9.23. And he said unto them all, Jf any will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross dayly, and follow me. Verse 26. For who∣soever shall be ashamed of me, and of

my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his glory, and in his Fathers, and of the holy Angels. Rom. 6. vers. 6. Know∣ing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. 2 Cor. 1. v. 5. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. Heb. 12. v. 6. For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scour∣geth every Son whom he receiveth. Verse 7. Jf ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with Sons: for what son is he whom the Father chasteneth not? Verse 8. But if ye be without chastisements, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.

Ephes. 3.20. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly, above all that we ask or think, ac∣cording to the power that worketh in us.

Gal. 2.20. J am crucified with Christ. Nevertheless I live, yet not J, but Christ liveth in me, and the life which J now live in the flesh, J live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

1 Pet. 2.20. For what glory is it, if when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? But if when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. Vers. 21. For even hereunto were ye called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that

ye should follow his steps.

1 Pet. 4.13. But rejoyce, in as much as ye are partakers of Christs sufferings, that when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. Verse 14. If ye be reproached for the Name of Christ happy are ye, for the Spirit of Glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part is he glorified. Verse 16. Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorifie God in this behalf. Verse 17. For the time is come that Judgment must begin at the House of God; and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the Gospel of God?

1 Pet. 5.10. But the God of all grace, who hath called us into his eter∣nal

glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.

To search further and beyond this we have neither ground nor autho∣rity; for 'tis in the Will of God him∣self whose Will is infinite, and no man can possibly attain to the knowledg of what farther Creations he will make.

An Addition, Unfolding and clearing some Things only toucht upon.

REader, To prevent mistakes, in some obscure Mysteries, and my expressions on them, take these few Explanations, before J bid thee Fare∣well.

1. Whereas in page 3. I make mention, of the Spirit of the Virgin Mary, know, there is a twofold my∣stical Virgin; the one is the pure Word or Doctrine of God, out of which Christ is born in us according to the Flesh; the other is the eternal

Wisdom of God, out of which Christ is brought forth in us accord∣ing to the Spirit; and this last is the Virgin, which we here meant.

2. Whereas in that page also, and page 4. line 7. we speak of the Bride of Christ, this also is twofold; the one is the Jerusalem, which comes down from God out of Heaven, which the promised Spirit, the ever∣lasting Kingdom of Righteousness, that descended upon the Apostles in the day of Pentecost: concerning which you may read more at large, Jer. 3.16. And it shal come to pass when ye be multiplyed and encreased in the Land, in those days, saith the Lord, they shal say no more, The Ark of the Covenāt of the Lord; neither shal it come to mind, neither shal they remēber it, neither shal

they visit it, neither shall that be done any more. Revel. 3.12. Him that over∣cometh will I make a Pillar in the Temple of my God, and he shall go no more out; and I will write upon him the Name of my God, and the name of the City of my God, which is the new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of Heaven from my God; and I will write upon him my new Name. And Chap. 21.2. And J John saw the holy Ci∣ty, the new Jerusalem coming down from God out of Heaven, prepared as a Bride adorned for her Husband. Of which Jerusalem, we also make men∣tion, page 10. line 3. out of the fourth Chapter to the Galatians: Our Je∣rusalem above is free. The other Bride of Christ, is his beloved Spouse the Church, at which the Apostle

speaks at large, Ephes. 5.25, 26, &c. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the Church, and gave himself fo•• it.

26. That he might sanctifie and cleanse it with the washing of water by the Word.

3. Whereas page 5. line 6, 7, 8. we declare, that after the peace and love of God are perfected in us, we find the beasts who lived before with∣in us in enmity, now agreeing with each other, as sometime those in No∣ahs Ark lived in amity: we desire you to understand, that there are two sorts of lusts, desires and affections in us; the one of these are reformed accord∣ing to upright nature, and kept in due subjection to the Spirit, having a true proportion and temperature a∣mong

themselves; and these are the beasts here meant, which were signifi∣ed by the clean beasts that entered in∣to Noahs Ark: and according to the tradition of the Hebrews, these had a distinct or several room apart for themselves in the Ark. The other are unnatural & inordinate thoughts, lusts, and passions; these are the brute beasts which we do awaken, by breaking our wills off from the will of God: of which beasts we spake page 7, in the 4 last lines; in the beginning of page 8. and in the 9 also; and these are very soul, unclean, and deadly beasts.

4. Whereas page 8. line 12 & 13, we said, Then you shall evidence that it is sown a natural body, and it is raised a spiritual body, there is a na∣tural

body, and there is a spiritual bo∣dy; our clear intent was to intimate, that besides our outward body of the four Elements, which shall be raised up again in one pure Element: ac∣cording to some writers, which are Authors of singular credit, there is an inward body of inordinate members, which must be sown or buried in mortification, that a new spiritual and incorruptible body may rise up in stead thereof.

5. VVhereas, page 12. line 11 & 12. there is mention of one and another Adam, one of them was created a living soul, & another must become a quick∣ening Spirit, as it is there hinted, for there is a twofold Adam, so termed by the Apostle, 1 Cor. 15.45. And so it is written, The first man Adam was made

a living soul, the last man Adam was made a quickening Spirit. And so much we have expresly mentioned, page 8. line 17 & 18. where we used the words of the Apostle, though we coted him not. The first Adam may be understood, both of our first parent, and of our earthly and natural man also; but the second Adam or man from Heaven is Christ himself, of which the first was a figure, as the Apostle witnesseth, Romans 5. v. 14. Nevertheless death raigned from A∣dam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adams transgression, who was the fi∣gure of him that was to come.

6. VVhereas we say, page 17 line 1 & 2, But to do this you must get you into the Cross, the Virgin fire, & into

the Bride; we would not be so un∣derstood, as if these three were one and the same thing: for, first, The Cross in a large sence & meaning sig∣nifies the whole work of our Humilia∣tion, Repentance and Regeneration, as page 19. line 1 & 2. we use it, where we with S. Paul, 1 Cor. 1.18. say, that the preaching of the Cross of Christ is to them that perish, foolishness; but to them, &c. And thus to sink down in our selves by the sense of Gods wrath, and to become humble, penitent, and tractable, to do and suffer the will of the Lord, is the first step to that Cross, of which we give a touch in many places, as pag. 22. li. 13. pag. 16. and page 30. and lines 12, 13. But the spiritual Cross in a more peculiar no∣tion, is the like patience or sufferance

of Christ, through which we dye vo∣luntarily unto all temptations and al∣lurements of sin, and are enabled to persevere in the greatest tryals of faith, till through the power of Christs as∣sisting grace we have gotten the vic∣tory. And upon this account S. James exhorts us thus, Chap. 1. v 3, 4. But let patience have her perfect work in you, that you may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. But the Virgin fire, or fire of Faith, is in it self a fire of Light, a Love-fire, and yet a con∣suming fire to all darkness and iniqui∣ty: And finally, the Bride is that Jerusalem aforesaid, which followeth in order after the iniquity is con∣sumed.

7. Whereas we make mention al∣so in page 17. line 5. first of the Saints

Purgatory, and immediately after of the fiery Tryal out of 1 Pet. 4.12. we took occasion from the purging fire which we had mentioned, to speak of our condition and trouble, which we must necessarily pass through, whilest we are under the Refiners hand; but the fiery Tryal it self ariseth not so much from that fire which in it self is soft and gentle, as from the fiery darts and temptations of the Devil, mentioned by the Apostle, Ephes. 6.16. Above all taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked: and from fierce and fiery persecuti∣ons, by which the Saints are some∣times tryed also.

8. Whereas in the same 17 page, line 12. we say, That by taking up our

Cross dayly, which is the sufferance of Christ aforesaid, we enter into the Holy, the sacrifices which we through the help of Christ offer up unto God therein, are our sin-offerings of Re∣pentance, our whole burnt-offering of mortification, and our death-offering in passing through a spiritu∣al, but yet a temporary Hell, and all this in conformity to Christs volun∣tary offering himself upon the Cross, and sufferings in the flesh, which is the thing we hinted at in page 4. line 8, 9, 10. the words are these, namely, VVho cometh through fire to drink of the living waters, into the inward society of Love: yet through this Holy we enter into the most Holy, where Christ the chief high Priest first brings unto us gifts and offerings of

unvaluable price, as the final Remis∣sion of sins, the heavenly Bread and Wine, whereof that of Melchisedec was a figure, and the everlasting Be∣nediction of all heavenly Treasures, of which you may see more at large, Hebr. 7. v. 3. Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God, abideth a Priest continually: and then enables us to offer unto God the sacrifices of everlasting praises; not of sins, but remission of sins. Thus you may understand the Authors meaning to the Hebrews, how Melchisedec was Without father, mother, having neither descent, beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God: which St. Peter confirmeth

also in his first Epistle, Chap. 1.23. Be∣ing born again not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the Word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. And Chap. 2.5, 6. Ye also as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy Priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifice, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

6. Wherefore it is contained in the Scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a ch ef corner stone, elect, precious, and he that beleeveth on him shall not be con∣founded.

Lastly, Whereas we alledg divers Texts of Scriptures in our four last Pages, to arm us for our duty and conflict of suffering with Christ, that afterwards we may raign with him; we conceive, that most of those Scrip∣tures

speak of those inward afflictions and sufferings which we must pass through, under Gods chastisements and Satans temptations, whilest we suffer the loss, death and burial of all our own imaginations, carnal wis∣dom, chosen holiness, self-made righ∣teousness, turbulent zeal, as well as of our sinful lusts, desires and affections; and that those testimonies aforesaid are not to be restrained to the oppo∣sitions and persecutions of wicked men only.

Loving Friend,

HE that continually sinketh down through Faith, waiting in patience, besides his conti∣nual preservation; when it is meet for him, the Lord doth comfort him with unspeakable joy, letting him know, that he hath ordained him to inherit the Promises; For by that means when the Virgin will reigneth, our own wills forsake their title, and are secured by that of our Lord Jesus: For a pure heathenish Virgin yeild∣eth to no defiled desire, but entereth into the unity of Virtue; whereby she is protected by the harmony of

an unknown Power, arising from the divine Law written in her heart, namely, the spirit of Abel, who de∣livereth her from the multiplicity of treacherous and perfideous delights: Therefore by faith let us appeal to our only Redeemer and Protector, leading us to that pure and undefiled Champion and Conqueror, Christ Jesus, in our Souls, who fighteth for us only, and not after the manner of Aaron, for himself and others, shew∣ing always his almighty Power when we have most need of the same.

I heartily rejoyce, that in the Name of the Lord you purpose to meet; for wheresoever two or three are gathered together in his Name, he is in the midst of them: upon which account likewise, by the joynt custom and

consent of those who meet within the Walls, called Aldermary Church, up∣on the first day of the week, I am, if God determine not otherwise, resol∣ved to meet there, where I doubt not but many of the children of God will meet, coming singly in his Name, to receive spiritual promises; therefore let not place divide the unity of our spirit: so we shall at the same time in several places, through faith in God, receive in his holy Name, what is ne∣cessary: So professing my self your unfeigned Friend, for the love you bear to our Lord Jesus, I remain yours.

Dear Friend,

THe Grecians did abound in na∣tural wit, and lived much in bondage under the false will, namely their own will, being very ambitious of self-humane wisdom and reason, that certainly was the Idol that more then in an ordinary mea∣sure they worshiped; therefore the Apostle said unto them, 1 Cor. 2. vers. 6, 7, 8, 9.

6. Howbeit, we speak wisdom a∣mong them that are perfect; yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the Princes of this world that come to nought.

7. But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wis∣dom, which God ordained before the world, unto our glory.

8. Which none of the Princes of this world knew; for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.

9. But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entred into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

Men certainly are as inclinable and willing by false rules to adorn them∣selves with unregenerated and unbe∣leeving wit and wisdom, and set up their Rest therein, as women to adorn and embelish themselves with over∣much art and care, which breedeth

vain thoughts and vile inclinations, nourishing thereby the false will, that leadeth into temptation; the former being thereby inclined to determine the will of God, regulating and gover∣ning the same by his comprehension, the latter the will of Nature by art and dexterity; whereby knowledg in man, and ingenuity in women, is made captive to the false depraved will: Yet Nature when she return∣eth again, and yeildeth obedience to the will of God, is good; for Nature her self standeth, and hath its center and being therein: But our own will, that is artificial, it is a violent pos∣session, a false usurped propriety, a peculiar self-conceited selfishness, got∣en by Adam when he fell from Gods will into his own: O therefore return

unto the will of God again; for the life of faith more by far excelleth our own wisdom and willing, then tran∣sitory and corruptible Nature in her perfection doth excel sophisticated and counterfeited Art; therefore I hope the good will in us will enable us to sink down into the Cross, and crucifie the bad will; then shall we know and plainly understand the mystery of Christ crucified, that im∣mortal and pure Wisdom, that in∣corruptible and resplendent Beauty. Thus may you clearly see the Apo∣stles meaning, 1 Cor. 1.22, 23, 24. For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom.

23. But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling block, and unto the Greeks foolishness.

24. But unto them which are called both Jews and Greeks, Christ the pow∣er of God, and the wisdom of God.

Let none hence conclude, 'cause I speak of right and regenerated Na∣ture, that I would endeavor to per∣swade women to think well of transi∣tory and fadable beauty; no, I would most humbly have them look after that eternal and unfadable one, 1 Pet. 3. v. 2, 3, 4. While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear.

3. Whose adorning, let it not be that outward adorning, of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of put∣ing on of apparel.

4. But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corrupti∣ble, even the ornament of a meek and

quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.

And Paul saith, 1 Tim. 2.9, 10. In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefastness and sobriety, not with broidered hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly aray:

But (which becometh women, pro∣fessing godliness) with good works.

Now as corruptible beauty is de∣structive to it self and others, unless the inward man be renewed; for in Christ there is no difference twixt man and woman: Galat. 1.27, 28. For as many of you as have been bap∣tized into Christ, have put on Christ.

28. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female; for ye are

all one in Christ Jesus.

For the vanity, pride and lust of artificial and sophisticated beauty al∣layeth very much virtue and piety, alluring and inwardly kindling vile thoughts, interrupting many times the simplicity and innocency of a harmless conversation. Thus it is with those likewise who live in artifi∣cial painted self-reason, making faith subservient to their humane wisdoms: And the Apostle found it so amongst the Grecians, who gloried in their self artificial knowledg, not regarding the mystery of Christ crucified. Hereby we may conclude, that the wit of man unregenerated is like unto horsedung, which before it is well rotted spoileth all the moulds it is mixed with: Repentance and Resignation fitteth

every man onely; wherefore the Apostle saith, 1 Corinth. 1. vers. 23. But we preach Christ crucified, un∣to the Jews a stumbling block, and unto the Greeks foolishness. They indeed would raign with Christ, but it must be in their own artificial wills, not in his; in their own false wisdoms, not in his: Fain they would live with him, but not dye with him; know him they would most willingly, suf∣fering for them; but to suffer with him, by no means that: They would fain have his Power and Crown, but not his faith, virtue and patience: Like a seed that would fain be a fine flowr, and have a fine scent, but not go into the earth to rot, putrifie and dye.

Take this Direction.

PAtience is the divine Water, Humility the divine Earth, and Faith the divine Sun; Love and Cha∣rity the divine Man Christ himself in the Spirit regenerated from thence. Now as all things proceed from Wa∣ter falling into the Earth, being per∣colated and strained by virtue of the Suns warmth: So likewise is it in the eternal Nature, as in this temporary; where the natural man is made of a clod of earth, nourished by moisture, circulated and digested by heat: E∣ven so the inward man Christ is ge∣nerated; Humility is the earth of which he is made, Patience the water with which he is nourished, and Faith

the Sun of divine Righteousness, by which he is digested, circulated, and brought to perfection, whereby God is regenerated in us, namely, love and charity. This is the Process; if any one practise the same, the vail shall be drawn from off their heart, and the great Mystery shall be made manifest in them, in their several proportions, according as God hath ordained:

Colos. 1. vers. 26, 27, 28, 29.

Even the Mystery which hath been hid from ages, and from generations, but now is made manifest unto his Saints,

27. To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this Mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

28. Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wis∣dom,

that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.

29. Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working which worketh in me mightily.

Farewell.

FINIS.