Sect 1. Exhortation to the Redeemed, in two Duties.

3. THis Doctrine calls upon the Lords Re∣deemed ones, for such a carriage, as is most suitable to their condition. Every re∣markable change of estate, requires an an∣swerable change of course and practise. If a prisoner (suppose Joseph) be hastily brought out of the Dungeon, to stand before a King, he must shave himself, and change his ray∣ment, his speech, apparel, gestures, and all his behaviour must be quite of another strain than they were in his low condition. Even so, beloved Christians, if you feel your selves bought out from the slavery of the curse; I beseech you to consider, that this excellent benefit layes a strong engagement upon you to walk as it becomes the Lords ransomed people.

And this walking must be manifested and held forth in sundry remarkable duties,* which I shall rank in such order, as I con∣ceive to be most proper.

The first duty which the Redeemed soul hath to do, is this, Admire the riches of the mercy of God in Christ, laying this benefit in Page  284 thy lap, and let it stir thee up to an holy re∣joycing, yea glorying in God, and let this joy break forth in praises.

1. Let this glorious work take up thy heart, and fill it with an holy wondring. Say, Oh, what admirable condescension is here, that Jesus Christ should be at such cost for me, to buy out such a wretch from the curse of the Law, and to make me actually partaker of this blessed liberty! The thought of this in∣comparable design thus brought home to my soule, doth even astonish me, that the Lord should pluck me, as a brand out of the fire, and when I had little savour, or desire that way, did break open the prison doores, and set me free, Psal. 126.1.

2. Tune, and teach thy soul to rejoyce in Jesus Christ. Entertain this gift with all gladness. Let the inwards of thy heart be much affected with joy in the consideration of the Lord's mercie to thee: Mary rejoyced in God her Saviour, Luke 1.46, 47. When the Jewes were rescued from destruction, by the dashing in pieces of Haman's bloodie pro∣ject, they had joy, and gladness, Esther 8.16, 17. Thou hast now received the atonement by Jesus Christ; therefore thou mayest now glorie in him, Rom. 5.11. Thou seest sinne, the Curse, condemnation, vanquished by the Cross of Christ, and thy self a Con∣querour through faith in his blood, there∣fore thou hast abundant cause to rejoyce in him, and in his salvation, Hab. 3.13, 17, &c.

Page  2853. Let this joy vent it self on all fit occa∣sions, by thanksgiving, both in songs,* and other expressions of his praise, speaking good of his Name. When the L rd hath redeemed his people, they shall come to Zion with singing, everlasting joy shall be upon their heads, sorrow and mourning shall flee a∣way, Isa. 35.10. This Prophesie doth either wholly or chiefly concern the Churches spi∣ritual deliverance, and shall be most fully verified, when their deliverance is compleat. The four beasts, and Twenty four Elders sing a new song unto the Lamb upon this ac∣count, because he was slain,* and had redeem∣ed them, &c. Rev. 5.8, 9. which some apply to the Church triumphant in heaven, Solo∣mon in Type, but Jesus Christ in truth should redeem the poor and needie, and shall dayly be praised, Psal. 72.14, 15.* Take notice of this, and practise it, Oh, It's a mercie, that calls for all that is within us, to praise him, and all little enough, Psal. 103.1, 2, &c. Keep in thy heart the remembrance of this benefit; Let it still be warme upon thy spirit, that thou mayest express some thankfulness every day, but especially, on the Lord's day, which being the day of Christ's resurrection,* is therefore to be observed as a solemne weekly Commemoration of the work of Redempti∣on, which was perfected thereby: and that (I doubt not) by Divine, or Apostolical warrant. Let this be the principal work of the day, and let it have an influence into all the parts of your lives. It is to be be∣wailed, Page  286 that too many of the Lords ran∣somed ones spend their dayes in sorrow, lowrness, and dejection of spirit, Whereas they should rather give up themselves to de∣light in him, who hath plucked their feet out of the net.

2. Hold fast the Libertie, which Christ hath given you, Seing you are now set free, inslave not your selves again, unto a second bondage, which may be,

1. More gross▪ and palpable, by apostasie from Jesus Christ, in the Doctrine, profession, and obedience of the Gospel. When thou hast entertained this truth of Redemption, by Christ, and hast gone so farre in applying it to thy self, that thou darest claim a part in it, beware now of backsliding, that thou leave not Christ on the plain field, in casting off the truth, and abandoning the profession of it, before men. If thou drawest back, the Lord will have no pleasure in thee, Heb. 10.38. Let these terrible thunderclaps be ever in thine eares, that those which fall away, cannot be renewed unto repentance, Heb. 6.4, &c. That if we sinne willingly, by a to∣tall Apostasie from the truth received, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sinnes, but an expectation of Judgement, and fierie in∣dignation, &c. Heb. 10.26, 27. See also 2 Pet. 2.20, 21.

2. More covert or refined, and that either of conscience, or of conversation.

1. Bondage of conscience is when the re∣deemed soule gives way to the threats, and Page  287 terrours of the Law, and suffers them to get so farre within him, as they cause him in some degree to lie down under the power of them. Yield not to this slaverie, Onely know, and make account that every sinne is in it self of such a malignant quality, that it would certainly bring the curse, and wrath of God upon thee, If it were not pre∣vented: And therefore when thou art overtaken with it, thou must judge thy self worthy to be destroyed, and that the Lord might justly charge it upon thee, and follow the Law against thee, to thy condemnation; and hereupon it will be necessary, that thou be often renewing thy repentance, in Godly sorrow, with faith on the Redeemer for par∣don, and fencing thy soul more against thy sinne, by hatred of it, and resolution against it. Do all this and spare not; but let not the Law throw the fire-balls of hell into thy conscience. Look not on thy self as one that lies under the Curse, Thy Redeemer hath cleared the score, and disanulled the Law, as to the Curse of it, so that, it hath no∣thing to say against thee. This lyon may roar upon thee, but be not dismayed, the Lord hath sent the Angel of the Covenant, and hath shut the Lyon's mouth, his,* rage is abated, his undoing power is taken away, he may shew his teeth, and snatch at thee, but he cannot wound thee mortally. Thou hast now a just and clear ground to go upon, in answering all the demands, pleeas and accusations that can lie against thee in Page  288 God's high Court of Justice. Therefore doe not nourish Legal feares any longer, but turn the Curse over to thy Redeemer, and bold∣ly tell it, that it hath nothing to do with thee. The Apostle in telling the believers of Rome, that they had not received the spirit of bondage again to fear, Rom. 8.15. inti∣mates that such a condition (to be held down under the slavish fear of condemna∣tion) doth not well consist with the estate of the Redeemed sonnes of God.

2. Bondage of conversation, when a sinner having hearkened to the Call and counsel of the Gospel, in accepting the offer of Christ, and redemption by him, gives leave to the bodie of sinne, dwelling in him, to act its part too much, and to bring him into some degrees of willing bondage, under those lusts, or sinfull practises, which formerly he had escaped and relinquished. Dost thou chal∣lenge a share in this ransome? Oh, then do not enslave thy self again unto any sinne; Art thou fetch'd out of the house of spiritual bondage with a mightie hand? Take heed, that thou hanker not after the flesh pots of Egypt, or attempt a return thither, as the people of Israel did, Numb. 14.4. Hath the Lord spoken peace to thee? wilt thou then turne again to folly? God forbid. Psal. 85.8. Oh! alas, that any of us should (after con∣tinuance in the profession of Christ, for some considerable time) suffer our selves to be ensnared in our olde lusts, or fall into new wayes of sinne, which yet is the sad case of Page  289 some, who at their entrance gave hopes of better things. Jesus Christ that mightie Champion, hath cast the Curse of the Law on a dead sleep. If thou wilt give libertie to thy self, to commit iniquitie, or to trade in any forbidden way, thou mayest fear, that the noise of thy sinne will awake this fierce Lion, ere thou be aware, to tear thy soul in pieces. Hearken to the Apostle's counsel; Fashion not your selves according to your former lusts, 1 Pet. 1.14. If the Manslayer, having fled to the city of Refuge, would afterwards make bold to wander without the border of it, the Avenger of blood, finde∣ing him, might lawfully kill him, his blood must be on his own head, Numb. 35.26. &c. Even so, if thou hast once betaken thy self to Jesus Christ as thy refuge, and after that, stragglest out of his liberties, into any sinfull practise, thou art then within the reach of the Avenger of blood, the Curse may meet with thee, and slay thy soul. Thy Redeemer hath hedged thee out from all such base courses, as are contrary to the end of thy Redempti∣on. If thou wilt take Libertie, where he gives none, at thy peril be it. The best, thou canst expect, is that when he comes, he will com∣plain, and say, Alas, what profit is there in my blood, that I have gone down to the pit, to deliver thee out of it, seing thou art re∣turning thither again? Be advised then, thou ransomed Christian, to lay a strict injunction upon thy self, and say, O my soul, thou art now set free, sinne no more, least a worse Page  290 thing come unto thee,* John 5.14. and when, through the prevailing of corruption, thou art drawn aside into some vagarie, make haste to returne by repentance, and pray earnestly, that the Lord would keep thee, from going back into that old prison of sinne, and the Curse, out of which, through the grace of Christ, thou art escaped.

Sect. 2. Third Duty.

3. GIve your selves up wholly to the plea∣sure, service, and obedience of your Lord, -Redeemer. Resigne your selves to him, to be at his appointment, and to his glorie. So doth the Apostle exhort, from this very ground, 1 Cor. 6.19, 20. The Lord Jesus having paid thy ransome, and made thee a freeman from the Curse, challengeth thee now for his own, and saith, Thou art mine: It is thy part, to Eccho, and say, Lord, I am thine, and to dedicate thy self to him, with full purpose of heart, in the whole stream of thy conversation: and that,

1. In doing. Israels deliverance from Egyptian bondage, was an ingagement to obedience. See the Preface to the Comman∣dements, Deut. 5.6. and one end of our Re∣demption from the hands of our spiritual enemies is, that wee might serve him in holi∣ness,* and righteousness all our dayes, Luke 1.74, 75. Christ died, and rose again, that he might be Lord of quick, and dead, therefore whether we live, or die, it must be, not to our selves, but to him. Rom. 14.7, 8, 9. Those Page  291 that are redeemed, to be Christ's peculiar people, must be zealous of good works,* Tit. 2.14. Christ hath suffered, that we being made partakers of the benefit of his sufferings, might live all our time after the will of God, 1 Pet. 4.1, 2. It was no part of our Redeemer's business, to free us from obedience, but ra∣ther by adding this engagement of Redem∣ption to that of Creation, to make the bond more strong, that a two-fold cord might not be easily broken. We are too carnally selfish, If we think that Christ had no aim in this great work, but onely to deliver us from hell, and bring us to heaven. Doubtless he had a further end in his eye, even to reduce us un∣to our first subjection, and obedience (from which we had wickedly departed), with the advantage of better abilitie to serve him, that we might be to his glory. In all which, not our own wisdome, or will, but the word of God must be attended, as our line to work by; especially the Morall Law, which is the plat∣forme of righteousness,* an eternal fixed Ca∣non for the ordering of our conversation. Therefore it's called the Royal Law, because the King of Kings hath appointed it to be the High-way for all his Subjects to walk in: yea, even believers must fulfil it. Jam. 2.8. So that, the Law ceaseth to condemne, but not to com∣mand; It is no longer a curse to destroy us, yet it is still a Rule to direct us. It's strange, that some men either cannot, or will not see, a clear difference, betwixt the mark, or finger which shews the way to the Traveller, Page  292 and the strength of body, whereby he is enabled to go on in the way; betwixt the command of the Law, which prescribes us our work, and the grace of the Spirit, which gives us power to do it: The Spirit, and the Letter are not opposite, but sweetly subordi∣nate:* The opposition is onely betwixt the newness of the spirit, and the oldness of the Letter; That service which we before per∣formed as slaves, we now performe as sonnes, Christ makes a change in us, in relation to the Rule, but no change in the matter of the Rule it self.

2. In Suffering. Christ hath undergone hard measures for thy sake, and hath there∣by purchased thy freedome. Be thou willing to undergo hard measures for his sake, that thou mayest advance his honour. If thou hast tasted the bitterness of thy bondage, and the sweetness of Redemption, thou wilt not grudge to lay down, all thy worldly content∣ments at the feet of thy Redeemer, yea, thou wilt not refuse to put thy life in thy hands, and to be sacrificed for the promoting of his glory, and be thankfull that thou art thought worthie to suffer for his Name. Yea, more,* if Gods providence shall so order, that a black night of darkness, and trouble shall come upon the Church, which may threaten to destroy, or (at least) to shake the faith of Christians, in this case, it seems necessary, that such of the Lords Redeemed, as are grown strong, should put their necks under the heaviest yoke of extraordinary afflictions, Page  293 if it may conduce to the establishing of others in the Truth, and the furthering of their salvation. S. Paul professeth his readi∣ness hereunto, 2 Tim. 2.10. and the Apostle John enjoines it as a necessary dutie upon this very ground.* Hee laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren, 1 John 3.16. Oh the noble he∣roik spirit of Moses, and Paul, who were wil∣ling to forego their parts in the glory of heaven, on condition that the Lords wrath might be turned away from their country∣men the Jewes, that they might be saved. Exod. 32.32. Rom. 9.3. And oh, that we could thus farre deny our selves for the honour of him, who hath denied himself infinitely more for us.

Conclude then for certain, that the Lord's Redeemed ought to resigne themselves whol∣ly unto the will, and service of Jesus Christ, their Lord, The equitie (yea necessitie) where∣of may further appear, if ye minde these few motives.

1. He onely hath the right of proprietie in you. The ransomed Captive is not his own, to dispose of himself; nor can any other per∣son claim an interest in him, to require ser∣vice of him, save onely he, that hath paid the price of his Redemption: Even so, nei∣ther thy self, nor Sathan, nor the world, but onely Jesus Christ hath the unquestionable title of dominion over thee, to order and to rule thee, so that thou art no debtor, to live, either to thy self, or to them, but to him, Page  294 that died for thee, Rom. 6.11. The Sacrament of baptisme holds forth this lesson. Thou wast baptised into the name of Jesus Christ, and hereby art really engaged unto his ser∣vice. To withdraw thy self from his service, and betake thy self to other Lords, is an high degree of theft, and Covenant-breaking. The Prophet speaks of witholding Tithes, and Offerings, as of a strange unheard of kinde of robbery. Will a man rob God? Mal. 3.8. What unreasonable brutishness is this?* What is it then for a Christian to rob God of himself, and his reasonable service? Shall the pettie Thieves be severely punish∣ed, and the grand Robbers escape? Resolve then, and say, Lord, other Lords besides thee have had dominion over us, but now we disclaim them, and we will remember thy name onely, Isa. 26.13.

2. The safety and comfort of your standing all along in this pilgrimage here below, de∣pend very much upon this. If you will for∣sake your selves, and all other Lords, and referre your selves to the guidance, and ap∣pointment of Jesus Christ, you need not fear any hard measures from him, in whom there is no unrighteousness; you may trust him, he will see,* that you shall fare no worse for that, but better. He that hath saved you in the swellings of Jordan, will assuredly look after yo• in smaller dangers. This is the way to secure your own peace and happiness, if, having owned Christ by faith, for your alone Redeemer, you will yield up your Page  295 selves to him, in unreserved obedience, in every condition, to do and suffer according to his will. But if you will needs be your own masters, or put your selves under the command of other Lords, you do hereby discharge him from taking care of you, and expose your selves to infinite perils. Thou, that hopest thou hast an actual share in this benefit, and yet either refusest to live wholly to him, or else dost capitulate with him, and wilt have a vote in the managing of thine own wayes, thou mayest fear, that God will give thee up to follow thine own counsels, and to shift for thy self in all the stormes, which thou mayest meet withall. And woe to that poor creature, whom God doth leave to himself, and to his own carvings; he must needs be in a very tottering condition, farre from peace.

3. In the great day of reckoning which is to come, Christ the Redeemer shall be judge: for the Father hath committed this business unto him, and hath given assurance thereof, in that, after his sad conflicts with the Curse, and death, he raised him up a Conquerour, Acts. 17.31. Now in that great Assize, Inquisi∣tion shall be made among those which are re∣tainers to Jesus Christ, chiefly concerning 2 things.

1. Whether hast thou, in the sence of thy wofull bondage under the Curse of the Law, heartily accepted of Christ offered in the Gospel, and renouncing all other helps in thy self, or the crea∣ture, Page  296 rested on him, as thine onely Redeemer?

2. Whether hast thou willingly resigned thy self up to him, as thy soveraigne Lord, to rule, and order thee in thy whole conver∣sation, so as thy main study, and work hath been to minde, and to seek his interest, to live to him, and to die to him, and so to be intirely for him, and for his glory.

This Latter shall then be insisted on, and put home,* to trie the truth of the former. There∣fore it concernes you, to bethink your selves before hand, what answer you will make, when you shall stand before the judge. If your hearts tell you, that you have onely given Christ good words, calling him, Lord, Lord, but have not made conscience of coming up to his com∣mandes, or yielding obedience to his will, or submitting to his pleasure, and disposing hand in all things, Oh, what a black day will that be, when you shall not be able to lift up your faces before him, but must stand speechless? Then shall you be sensible of your desperate folly, and condemne your selves for it, sadly lamenting, that you have so grosly neglected both your Redeemer, and your own soules: but all too late, your day will be past. Hap∣py is that man,* that shall then be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless, although his lot should be to live in beggerie, and misery in this world, all the dayes of his appointed time.

Yet alas, what a wofull guilt lies on the consciences of too many Christians? We all confess with our mouthes, Christ's authority Page  297 over us by the right of Redemption, but how few of us make any proof thereof by suitable obedience. The most have given up themselves to seek the interests of the flesh, and the world; their desires, designes, en∣deavours, imployments, delights, content∣ments, run wholly in the•e channels; but the will, service, honour of Jesus Christ, is not in all their thoughts. He bids us be holy, be sober, and watch, deny our selves, take up our cross, love our enemies, have our conver∣sation in heaven, seek things above, crucifie the flesh, walk in newness of life, grow in grace, and the knowledge of Christ, &c. But these are strange things to many of us, which challenge a part in the grace of Redemption, and yet walk contrary, denying Christ his right, making provision for the flesh, and in∣slaving our lives to the lusts and pleasures of this world. What a number of hollow-hearted, self-seeking Clyents hath Jesus Christ, which follow him, that they may es∣cape wrath and the damnation of hell, and injoy Gods favour and salvation in heaven, and yet are never like to attain that which they expect, but are even at the next door to destruction? And all because they have not devoted their hearts and lives sincerely to the service of the Redeemer, but fancied such a car∣nal salvation, as will comply with the service of sin, and requires no p•ins for compassing it, but may be had with a wish, and sno•ting on their beds, and allows them sparing from the diligent study, pursuit, and practise of Page  298 holiness in their conversation.

*But as for you that love your Redeemer, I beseech you lay to heart, the dishonour that is done to him, and look to your own soules. If Jesus Christ hath disbursed so great a summe for you, he may justly require some considerable profit. If he hath even emptied himself to save thee from the curse, what canst thou do less, than devote thy self wholly to his honour?

I remember a story of a young man, which being arraigned for some foule crime, was condemned to dye. The Judge looking up∣on him, and taking some liking to him, told him, that he would reprieve him. At which unexpected favour, the young man being astonished, professed that unless the Judge would take him into his service, that he might wait upon him as long as he lived, hee would rather chuse to dye. Bee thou like minded, let it not satisfie thee, that Christ hath rescued thee from the curse, and there an end; but now take him for thy Lord, let his will be thy will, let the bent of thy de∣sires, and endeavours be to please him in all things, breath after the highest pitch of obe∣dience, be willing to be at his disposing in the greatest difficulties,* and make it thy daily work to further thy Masters interests some way or other. And whereinsoever thou failest, or fallest short, make it up by godly sorrow, and faith in the Redeemer. Rest not till thou canst say with St. Paul, To me to live is Christ: I am striving to live up to Page  299 the minde and will of Christ, he shall be my utmost end, Phil. 1.21. In a word, Christ ac∣counts it his honour, and do thou account it thine to serve him for ever. See the Apo∣stles profession, 2 Cor. 5.14, 15. and turn it in∣to practise.

Sect. 3. The fourth Duty.

4. LAbour to bring in others to the parti∣cipation of the same benefit. When thou art redeemed, help forward the Re∣demption of thy poor brethren. If the Lord Jesus hath taken compassion on thee, and de∣livered thee from the curse of the Law, by the actual application of his satisfaction to thy soul; then it behoves thee to have com∣passion on thy fellow-prisoners, and to use thy best endeavours, that they also may be set at liberty. Christ hath given himself a ransome for many, Matth. 20.28. and he hath abundance both of merit and spirit to impart unto them, so that if many millions of poor souls were brought in,* there would be no less for thee. Do thou then what lyes in thee, that many may be brought to the reall possession of this benefit. Oh, that there were such an heart in all the Lords Redeem∣ed, to study the advancement of their Re∣deemers glory, in furthering the salvation of captive-sinners, that all (if possible) may be made partakers of this grace. I would gladly Page  300 presse this duty upon my self, and you, ac∣cording to the several relations, wherein we stand. It concerns,

1. Ministers of the Gospel. We are Christs Heraulds sent forth to proclaime deliverance to the Captives, and to perswade them to imbrace it;* even as one part of the Priests office was by sound of Trumpet to give publick notice of the year of Jubilee, and to prepare the people for the injoying the pri∣viledges of it. Our work is very important, therefore it behoves us to be very faithful, and diligent in it. We have many under our over-sight (alas, too many) which lye in the bond of iniquity, strangers to Jesus Christ. Our maine business is in reference to these, that we may turn them from the power of Satan unto God, and bring them to the in∣joyment of true spiritual liberty by Jesus Christ. Wee may look upon those truely miserable soules, as the ruful objects of our choisest pity, and we ought by all due means, especially by publick preaching, and private instruction, to labour their conversion, and to save them from dropping into those ever∣lasting burnings. See the grave counsel of the Apostle to this purpose, 2 Tim. 2.25, 26. And here we must have a special eye upon those whom we perceive to be awakened, to look out toward a change. When the Lord sends to us any poor souls that are struck down by the Ministry unto conviction, and humiliation, he doth then call us, to hold forth such spiritual direction and consolati∣on, Page  301 as may sute best with their several condi∣tions, according to the word, Mal. 2.7. Job 33.23. When the Lord appointed Cities of Refuge for the man-slayer, he gave charge, that a way should be prepared, and the coasts of the Land divided into three parts.

It seems this division was in favour of the persons, that every one might take the benefit of the nearest City, lest the length of the way might occasion danger, Deu. 19.3, 6. And when the Lord promiseth to bring in his people by the cal of the Gospel (which may possibly refer to the calling of the Jews) he bids, Cast up, cast up, prepare the way of my people, gather out the stones, take up the stumbling-blocks, Isa. 57.14. & 62.10. which expressions seem to allude to the preparing of the way to the City of Re∣fuge. This burden lyes chiefly on us Mini∣sters of the Gospel, as it appears by the Pro∣phesie concerning John Baptist, Isa. 40.3, 4. Matth. 3.3. It is one part of our Office to make the way plain, that no rub may lye in it to hinder guilty distressed souls in their march towards their only Refuge Christ Jesus. And after all this, we have variety of work in re∣ference to you, which are actually redeemed, to stablish you in the present truth, to fence you against errors, temptations, corruptions, to build you up in knowledge, faith, holiness, and so to bring you on unto perfection. The charge of the holy Apostle is very punctual and full, Take heed to all the flocke, &c. Act. 20.28. I would awake my self, and my bre∣thren, and thus be-speak my self, Oh these Page  302 sheep are the purchase of Christs blood, he became a curse for them, that he might re∣deem them from it. Hath he bought them, and shall I lose them? Hath he undergone the curse to set them free from it, and com∣manded me to improve my uttermost endea∣vours to bring them to the enjoyment of this benefit, and shall I suffer them to continue in that woful prison, and to perish eternally, through my silence and unfaithfulness? God forbid! Let us consider before-hand, how sad it will be, if at the great day, our Master Christ shall bring forth his curse, blood, sa∣tisfaction, and set before our eyes the preci∣ousness of poor souls, to plead against us for our negligence, and to aggravate our just condemnation, when there will be no place for repentance.

2. Heads and governours of Families; Husbands in reference to their wives, Fa∣thers to children, Masters▪ and Dames to ser∣vants; while the bond of these particular re∣lations continues, the over-sight of these persons belongs to you, not onely of their bodies, but soules; and the Lord expects, that you should put forth your authority in requiring them to keep his way. He had no doubt of Abraham, but made full account, that he would command his children, and his houshold thus to do, Gen. 18.19. and if thou be a right-bred childe of Abraham, thou wilt follow his steps. Certainly this great work of Redemption from the curse, is one of the chiefe of Gods wayes; therefore yee should Page  303 see, that they keep this way especially, using all means to bring them to the knowledge and love, and so to the personal injoyment of it in due time. Go to then. Thou art an Husband, thou claimest a share in this liber∣ty, but thy wife abides still in her old woful bondage. If thou hast any love to her soul, thou wilt pitty, exhort, pray for her, and say, Alas, alas, for the wife that lyes in my bosome; for ought I can perceive, she is still under the curse of the Law, her great igno∣rance, and uncapableness, her unsavouriness, and coldness, yea her aversness, and back∣wardness in matters of godliness, especially where it most concerns her own spiritual good, do even proclaime it aloud, to my griefe. Oh that the Lord would have com∣passion on her, that at last I might see her partaker of the blessing. Thou art a Father, or mother, you that are such, may look up∣on your children with weeping eyes, while you see them chained in the bolts, and fet∣ters of the curse, and consider withall, that you were means to bring them into this bondage, and that they are your bone, and your flesh, a part of your selves. Oh then, if you have the bowels of Parents, help them at this dead lift. Will you turn every stone to provide large portions for their bo∣dies, and will you do nothing in the mean time for their soules? If they were in prison for debt, or upon any other account, you could not finde in your hearts, that they should lye there still, but you will try all Page  304 wayes to procure their liberty, and can you be content to see them lye under the curse in the dungeon of hell, for want of share in this Redemption.

Thou art a Master or Dame. Look upon your man-servants and maid-servants. Are they not servants of sin, slaves to lusts and divers pleasures? Addicted to vain conver∣sations, as in the prophaning, and mispend∣ing of the Lords day? And so strangers to Jesus Christ, and heires of the Curse? Oh pitty their soules, and do what you can by prayer, and good counsel, to recover them out of the gall of bitterness. It may be, thou canst say truly, they are good servants to me, they do my work faithfully, I cannot blame them: But what doth this avail, while thou mayest say as truly, that they are deeply in∣gaged to the service of Satan, and aliens to the grace of Redemption? my soul bleeds for their ignorance, and obstinacy. Oh that I might see my servants to become at length the servants of the Lord Jesus. But where shall we finde such governours of Families? one City, or two in a tribe, so few that a little childe may count them. If the wise be provident, frugal, helpful towards the in∣creasing of the estate; if the children be dutiful, apt to learn that, which may be their livelihood hereafter, only keeping them∣selves free from such courses as may ruine them, or expose them to shame: If the ser∣vants be strong to labour, and bring in ad∣vantage by their diligence: The Husbands, Page  305 Fathers, Masters do not so much as put the question in what case their souls stand, whe∣ther they be made free by Christ, or still con∣tinue slaves to the curse, they suffer them to lye in their gore-blood of their first birth; and if three words of savoury instruction and exhortation would save their souls, they cannot have them. Oh cruel Husband, Fa∣ther, Master, will the love of your Relations reach no further? Truly, as it a signe, that your selves have no part in this benefit, so how can your hearts indure, or your hands be strong, when you shall see your wives, children, servants lying woful prisoners un∣der those everlasting chaines,* for want of an interest in Jesus Christ? and your consci∣ences shall tell you, that you are one cause of their misery, in that you would not stir one finger towards their help or deliver∣ance.

3. Neighbours and friends, especially per∣sons that are near, either in blood, or by affi∣nity; you that are related to others by kindred, can you look upon your brethren, sisters, and kinsmen which lye still under the curse, and not be affected with their sad con∣dition? Oh! acquaint them with Jesus Christ, let them know that he hath paid their ransome, shew them the way to get an actual interest in it, that they may be deliver∣ed from the wrath to come. The rich Glut∣ton being in hell, intreats father Abraham to send Lazarus to testifie to his five brethren, lest they also come into that place of torment, Page  306 Luke 16.27, 28. as if he should say, While I lived on earth, I was a very slave to my sin∣ful pleasures, and utterly neglected all means of freedome,* and therefore here I lye under the wrath of God, burning in this flame. And I have some kinsmen still living, who are posting on in the wayes of their own hearts, and in great danger ere long to be cast into this prison. Oh! that some good pitiful body would take a little pains, to convince them of their sin, to set before their eyes the curse under which they lye, and to discover unto them the way of recovery, that they may escape that woe which I feel. So it may be, some of your predecessors, that are gone to their long home, and are now lying in the chains of the pit, have sad thoughts of heart for you that are left behinde, when they consider, that you are following their steps, intent on the service, and pursuit of your lusts, and do wish, that some effectual means were used, whereby you might be reclaimed, and saved from hell. And now may we not hence safely conclude, that it is a shameful thing, and sad∣ly to be lamented, if the damned in hell, do express more affectionate care of the eternal happiness of their kindred than those, which pretend to be their best friends on earth; you who either by advised choice, or by long acquaintance, are grown into intimate fami∣liarity, may make use of this help, to put one another into the possession of the grace of Re∣demption.* A friend is another the same. Two Page  307 persons joyned in a league of friendship, are one soul in two bodies. Your inward society, and dear esteem of one another, may both af∣ford you more frequent opportunities, & may qualifie you with greater freedom in carrying on the work for mutual benefit. Thou sayest, such a one is to me even as mine own soul. Why then dost thou not endeavour, that it may go as prosperously with his soul, as with thine own? And you that are neighbours, what do you? Oh further one another in this way. Do ye not see some that dwell about you fallen among the Theeves of hell, left wound∣ed, and half dead? Be you Samaritans, do what you can to deliver, and to heal them. Your cohabitation, and sundry occasions of conversing together, give you these advan∣tages of doing good, which others cannot have. Thou art commanded to love thy neighbour as thy self, but if thou dost not labour to bring him into the fellowship of this grace with thy self, then where is thy love? It is sad to observe, that at the meetings of neighbours, one shall scarcely hear three wise words in a whole year tending to the good of souls. To make short, the desire of our Redee∣mers glory, and zeal of the salvation of cap∣tive souls, should constrain us to lay hold upon all advantages, which Gods providence shall offer, for doing good even to meer strangers, if by any means we may be serviceable, in fur∣thering their eternal happiness, by the en∣joyment of this rich benefit. See Psal. 119.45, 46.

Sect. 4. The fifth Dutie.

5. LOve the appearing of thy Redeemer, which shall be at his second coming. Believers are described by this propertie. 2 Tim. 4.8. His first coming was to pay the price of Redemption, and then to apply it to all those, whom the Father hath given him, in due season: He will come again to fill up all empty Places, to perfect the work, and to save them to the uttermost.* He was once offered to bear the sinnes of many; and he shall come the second time, in the end of the world without sinne unto salvation, Heb. 9.28. He came at first burthened with the curse of the Law: he shall come then in the fulness of the blessing of his Gospel. Then shalt thou reap the full harvest of Redempti∣on, and all the fruits of it shall be laid in thy lap at once. Oh then stirre up thy self! thou redeemed soul, to salute this happie day a∣farre off, and to embrace it with an affecti∣onate love; and let this love discover it self, by threatnings of,

1. Vehement Desires. Let thy heart be every like breathing after it, and longing to enjoy it. The godly, which have the first fruits of the Spirit, do sigh and groan with∣in themselves, Rom. 8.23. and the Apostle Peter call's upon us, to look for, and hasten unto the coming of the day of God, 2 Pet. Page  309 3.12. These expressions note the earnest desires of the soule. The traveller would fain come to the lodging place, where he may rest at night: The Day-taile-labourer breathes after the evening, that he may be dismissed from his work, and receive his wages.* They that journey from day to day in hot and drie countries, and they that sweat and broil at harvest-work in the heat of Summer, do gape after the cooling and refreshing shadow. That shall be the time of thy rest, thy re∣freshing, thy reward, after all the labours of thine obedience in doing, and suffering the will of God here below. If thou hast en∣tred upon the possession of this grace, by an unfained faith in the Redeemer, and hast truly tasted the goodness of it, in the first fruits, how canst thou forbear to sigh, and pant in the strength of thy desires, for the enjoyment of the whole crop, which is re∣served for that day?

2. Lively Hope. Let those desires be at∣tended with a patient expectation of that happy day of thy compleat deliverance, Rom. 8.23. waiting is joyned with groaning. The Apostle mentions it, as a propertie of belie∣vers both there and elsewhere often. 1 Cor. 1.7. they look for him (as it were) afarre off,* to be their Saviour, Phil. 3.20. and to them that thus look for him, he will appear for their salvation, Heb. 9.28. and the grace of God, as it teacheth us to abandon sinne, and to live godly, so it inables us to look for that blessed hope, and glorious appea•ing of Christ, Page  310 Tit. 2.11, 12, 13. How vigorously (think you) did the Inhabitants of Jabesh-Gilead wait for the coming of Saul to their timely aid, according to his solemne promise, that they might be rid out of the hands of Nahash, and delivered from the fear of that slaverie, which he had threatened? 1 Sam. 11.1, 9, &c. And how vigorously should we wait for the coming of Christ, to set us absolutely free from that Nahash,* that Serpent, and conju∣rer of Hell, and to tread him under our feet, that he may never whisper more? As Ruth was advised by her mother, to sit still, till she should see the issue of the business betwixt her, and her kinsman, concerning the Re∣demption and marriage motioned, upon assu∣rance, that the man would not rest, till he had finished the thing, Ruth. 3.18. So much more should we learn silently to wait for the happy issue of this great transaction betwixt Christ and us, in our compleat Redemption, and full marriage in heaven.

3. Hearty rejoycing in the foresight of it. Let those strong desires, and lively hopes be carried on, and sweetned with the mixture of spiritual joy, which may comfortably re∣fresh, and chear your soules all along in every condition, upon the view of this day before∣hand. The Apostle speaking in the Name of justified persons, saith, We rejoyce in hope of the glory of God, yea, even in tribulations, Rom. 5.2, 3. and of himself he saith, a crown of righteousness is laid up for me, having fought a good fight, &c. The manner of his Page  311 expression breathes out joy, and content∣ment in the forethought of it, 2 Tim. 4.8. and long before this, holy Job discovers the same spirit of gladness, I know (saith he) that my Redeemer liv•th, and that he shall stand up at the last day, and then I shall see God in my flesh, Job 19.25, 26. How doth the apprentice or hired servant rejoyce to think on the expiration of his Terme, and the last day of his service! Thou poor soul who art still forced to serve the Law of sinne in thy flesh, look forward, and see the time of thy freedome coming on, and be comforted. How do the Mariners and Sea∣faring men, that have been wether-beaten, and tossed with tempests, rejoyce,* when they see the haven afarre off, where they may be quiet? If thou be put upon hard adven∣tures, and art sailing through a rough sea of stormes and troubles in this world, yet lift up thine eyes, and behold the haven of per∣fect liberty, and glory, whereunto thy Re∣deemer will waf• thee shortly, and let this chear up thy Spirit. How greatly doth it glad the heart of a condemned prisoner, that lies bound in affliction, and iron, to hear the report of a pardon sealed at Court for him, which shall be put into his hands at the As∣sises, and solemnly proclaimed for his bene∣fit? the welcome thought of these things makes his heart even leap for joy, and he begins to insult upon the prison, his bonds, and fetters, and all the instruments of his restraint, and saith, I shal get rid out of all your Page  312 hands ere long. Thou ransomed soul. Thy pardon is sealed in heaven, the report there∣of is comed to thine eares, and heart, by the ministerie of the Gospel; It shall be effectu∣ally pleaded for thee at the day of Christ's appearing, and thou shalt be possessed of an absolute freedome, never to know bondage under sinne, and the Curse any more. Oh then!* let thy mouth be filled with laughter, and thy tongue with singing: Let thy medi∣tations on this subject be sweet, and feast thy soul thereon with great delight. Say thus to the glory of thy Redeemer, Lord Je∣sus, thou camest once to be accursed for me, [that was my shame]; but thou wilt come again at that day to be ad∣mired in me; [that shall be thy honour,] 2 Thes. 1.10.

Beloved Christians, let us learn these les∣sons, and practise them. But truly such car∣riage requires a spiritual frame of heart, I shall therefore adde a few particulars, com∣mending them to your observation, as ne∣cessary helps to further us in the main dutie.

1. Carefully keep thy self unspotted of the world, let not the pleasure of any car∣nal lust so tickle thy soul, as to get within thee, and seise upon the vitals of grace, give not libertie to thy foot, to walk in any for∣bidden path, but take pains to purge out thy dross, and baggage more and more, that thou mayest be pure in heart, and undefiled in the way. Through this gross neglect, too Page  313 many Christians, suffering iniquitie to cleave to their hands, disable themselves from loving the appearing of Christ; they do not desire it, but are averse from it, they do not hope for it, but rather fear it, they cannot sensibly rejoyce in it, but the thoughts of it put them into dumps and sadness. Onely this taking heed to thy self, will dispose thee to lift up thy face, without spot, yea, thou shalt be secure, because there is hope, J•b 11.14, &c.

2. Preserve in thy self a willingness to die.* I mean, a well-grounded, reall willingness, not slavish, or constrained through impa∣tience under sufferings, or discontent in an unwelcome condition, but sincere and cor∣dial, from a longing after Jesus Christ, to enjoy him in the full fruit of his Redem∣ption. This was S. Paul's temper, Phil. 1.21. There is indeed in every man naturally an aversness from death, being the dissolution of his frame, and an evil of punishment, and the grace of Regeneration doth not wholly take it away, but onely keeps it within due Bounders, and raiseth up in the soul a super∣natural desire of blessedness with Christ in heaven, and a willingness to submit to death in order to the attaining thereof, Get thy heart wrought to this frame, and held up. By death the Lord will set thee free from all thy chaines, and not till then; if thou canst not make it welcome, it seems, thou art not wearie of thy chaines; yet alas, how common is this distemper? We look upon the grace of Page  314 Redemption as very desireable, and we would enjoy it at the very height, yet we hang still in the bodie, and are loth to die. The pri∣soner that knowes his Supersedeas is granted, or his pardon sealed, will he be loth to see the prison doores set open, or shrink at the knocking off his bolts from his leggs? If the Lord Jesus came down from heaven, took upon him the curse of the Law, and bare the wrath of God, due to us Rebels, and all that he might bring us to God in glory, shall we stand off, and so cause him to lose his labour? Is heaven, and the pleasures of God's right hand of no more worth in thine eye? Oh Christians, death may well be terri∣ble to such, as are strangers to Christ; but he hath taken away the sting of it for you: Therefore labour to get up above your feares, and be freely content to be unclothed, that you may be present with the Lord, 2 Cor. 5.1, 8.

3. In thy whole course after conversion, commit thy soul, and all the hopes of thy happiness unto Jesus Christ. Lay up thy crown with him, commend thy darling, thy choicest treasure unto him, and let him keep it for thee. He hath ransomed thy soul, which thou hadst lost, and recovered the in∣heritance of heaven, which thou hadst for∣feited by thy treason, therefore put them over into his hands by faith, and hope, and let him have the custody of them. Do this in every condition of life, wherein the Lord shall set thee. When the light shines about Page  315 thy Tabernacle, and thou enjoyest prosperi∣tie in things below, say not, my mountain stands strong, I can manage all things my self, my welfare is in mine own hands. When thy soul is filled with comfort, by the light of Gods countenance lifted up upon it, do not now trust thy self with thy spiritual hap∣piness; say not, I shall carve so for my self, as it shall be ever thus with me, but lean upon thy Redeemer, as the soveraign dispo∣ser of all thy concernments.* Especially look to this in the dayes of adversitie, or danger, by afflictions of soul, or body; then thou shalt be put to it; thrust thy self under the wings of thy Saviour, and deliver up all thine interests into his hands, who hath bought thee for himself, and will not see thee miscarry. Is there any person or creature in heaven or earth, whom you can betrust with them, in assurance of safetie? None be∣sides him. The Apostle Peter gives this sa∣vourie counsel to suffering Christians, 1 Pet. 4.19. and we have two choice examples per∣tinent to this purpose: The former of the Psalmist Psal. 49.5-15. who, in the dayes of evil, when the iniquity of his heels should compass him about, that is, when he shall be exercised with afflictions, and cha∣stisements, for his sinfull strayings, and un∣even walking, yet resolves, that he will not be afraid, because he hath committed his soule unto God, being assured, that he would redeem it from the power of the grave, in the morning of the resurrection; while the Page  316 men of the world, whose trust is onely in the broken staffe of the creature, shall fall short of their hopes, and be miserably de∣voured by death eternal. The latter example is the Apostle Paul, 2 Tim. 1.12. who beares up courageously in the midst of his sufferings for the Gospel, upon this ground; He hath deposited his soul,* and the glory prepared for him, in the hands of Christ, and he was perswaded, that he was able (and willing too, that is implyed) to keep that, which he had committed to him against that day.

4. When the summons of death come to arrest thee, and call thee hence, then com∣mit and commend tby spirit into the hands of the Lord God thy Redeemer. Thus did David, when Saul and his men hemmed him in on every side, so that there was no way of escape open, but he said, he was cut off, a gone man. Psal. 31.5, 22. Some interpreters do probably take this,* to be the occasion of his penning that Psalm. The story is 1 Sam. 23.26. Jesus Christ thy Redeemer, being readie to give up the Ghost on the Cross, uttereth the same words, Luke 23.46. and in this commending his soul into the hands of his father: He hath respect to his members, and thereby undertakes the safe keeping of all their soules:* So that thou needest not fear to commit thy spirit at death unto him, as he committed his to his Father: Some of the most precious servants of God, are recorded in Scripture, Page  317 as Presidents herein. That expression of holy Jacob, breathed out in the midst of his solemne speech to his sonnes on his death bed, doth clearly imply this gracious pra∣ctise, Gen. 49.18. and Stephen the first Gospel-martyr, followed the example of his master Jesus herein, Acts 7.59. Go thou, and learn that lesson, that thou mayest have it in readi∣ness on the day that thou shalt go hence, and be no more. Say thus, Oh Lord, here I am, an unworthy creature, but thou hast in pure love to my soul, bought me out from the Curse, and so delivered me from the pit, of corruption, Isa. 38.17. and now, that I must lay down this earthly Tabernacle, I do freely render thee thine own. I am thine, save me, Psal. 119.94. I humbly wait for that Crown of righteousness, the full possession of glory, (in perfect union with thy blessed self) which thou hast purchased with so dear a price, and is laid up for me, and many poor soules in heaven, 2 Tim. 4.8.

Thus much of the Fifth Use, which was for exhortation.