Wilson on Article XVII: Of Predestination and Election

a Before that the Lord God made heaven and earth, he deter- mined to have to himself a certain most beautiful kingdom, and most holy commonweal. This the Apostles that wrote in Greek called ‘Ex.x,M<rU, which by interpreting the word may fitly be called a Congregation. Into this as into his own city, God did incorporate an infinite multitude of men, which must all be sub- ject, seviceable, and obedient to Christ their only King, and which have all committed themselves to his protection, and of whom he hath taken upon him to be defender, and doth conti- nually maintain and preserve them. To this commonweal do all they properly belong, as many as truly fear, honour, and call upon God, altogether applying their minds to live holily and godly, and which putting all their trust and hope in God do most assuredly look for (certissime expectant) the blessedness of eternal life. They that be stedfast, stable, and constant in this faith, were chosen and appointed, and (as we term it) predesti- nated to this so great felicity, before the foundations of the world were laid, whereof they have a witness within them in their souls, the Spirit of Christ the author, and therewith also the most sure pledge of this confidence. By the instinct of

a God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Thess. v. 9. Having- made known unto us the mystery of his will, according1 to his good pleasure, which he hath purposed in himself. — Being pre- destinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will. Eph. i. 9, 11. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the first- born among many brethren. Rom. viii. 29. Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but ac- cording to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began. 2 Tim. i. 9. According to the eter- nal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord. Eph. iii. 11. God is not a man, that he should lie ; neither the son of man, that he should repent : hath he said,

and shall he not do it ? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good? Numb. xxiii. 19. Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My coun- sel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure : — I have spoken it, I will also bring it to pass : I have purposed it, I will also do it. Isa. xlvi. 10, 11. The Lord of hosts hath purposed it, and who shall disannul it ? Isa. xiv. 27. He is in one mind, and who can turn him ? and what his soul desireth, even that he doeth. For he performeth the thing that is appointed for me : and many such things are with him. Job xxiii. 13, 14. I know that whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever : nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God doeth it, that men should fear before him. Eccl. iii. 14. There are many devices in a man’s heart; nevertheless the counsel of the Lord that shall stand. Prov.

purpose of God, whereby, b before the foundations of the world were laid, he hath c constantly de- creed by his counsel, d secret to us, eto deliver

which divine Spirit, I do also most assuredly persuade myself that I am also, by God’s good gift through Christ, freely made one of this blessed city. — M. It is sure a godly and most neces- sary persuasion. Nowell, p. 63.

b Q. Can we not therefore prevent God with any works or deservings, whereby we may first provoke him to love us and be good unto us ? A. Surely with none. For God loved us and chose us in Christ, not only when we were his enemies, that is, sinners, but also before the foundations of the world were laid. Nowell, p. 74.

d This communion of saints cannot be perceived by our senses, nor by any natural kind of knowledge, or force of un- derstanding, as other civil communities and fellowships of men may be. — The congregation of those whom God by his secret election hath adopted to himself through Christ, can neither be seen with eyes, nor can continually be known by signs. Nowell, p. 67.

xix. 21. The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations. Bless- ed is the nation whose God is the Lord : and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inherit- ance. Ps. xxxiii. 11, 12. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. James i. 17. The founda- tion of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. 2 Tim. ii. 19. Fear not, little flock I for it is your Fa- ther’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Luke xii. 32.

b Known unto God are all his works, from the beginning of the world. Acts xv. 18. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ Jesus; according as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love, having predes- tinated us to the adoption of chil- dren by Jesus Christ to himself,

according to the good pleasure of his will. Eph. i. 3 — 5. Names written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. Rev. xiii. 8.

• God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath. Heb. vi. 17. He giveth not account of any of his matters. Job xxxiii. 13. Who hath stood in the counsel of the Lord, and hath perceived and heard his word ? who hath marked his word, and heard it? Jer. xxiii. 18.

d Canst thou by searching find out God ? canst thou find out the Almighty to perfection ? Job xi. 7. It is not for you to know the times or the seasons which the Father hath put in his own power. Acts i. 7. The secret things belong unto the Lord our God. Deut. xxix. 29. O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God ! how unsearchable are his judg- ments, and his ways past finding out ! For who hath known the mind of the Lord ? or who hath been his counsellor? Rom. xi. 33, 34.

• 1 will ransom them from the

from curse and damnation those whom he hath f chosen gin Christ out of mankind, hand to

g Q. Give me the definition of the church that thou speakest of. A. I may most briefly and truly say, that the church is the body of Christ. Q. Yea; but I would have it somewhat more plainly and at large. A. The church is the body of the Chris- tian commonweal, that is, the universal number and fellowship of all the faithful, whom God through Christ hath before all beginning of time appointed to everlasting life. Q. Why is this point put into the Creed ? A. Because if the Church were not, both Christ had died without cause, and all the things which have been hitherto spoken of should be in vain, and come to nought. Q. How so ? A. Because hitherto we have spoken of the causes of salvation, and have considered the foun- dation thereof, namely, how God by the deserving of Christ loveth us and dearly esteemeth us ; how also by the work of the Holy Ghost we receive this grace of God, whereunto we are restored. But of these this is the only effect, that there be a church, that is, a company of the godly, upon whom these benefits of God may be bestowed ; that there be a certain city and commonweal, in which we ought to lay up, and as it were to consecrate all we have, and to give ourselves wholly unto it, and for which we ought not to stick to die. Nowell, p. 64. See Article XIX. a.

h Beseeching thee, that it may please thee, of thy gracious

power of the grave ; I will redeem not thy peace : for I am with thee,

them from death : O death, I will and no man shall set on thee to

be thy plagues; O grave, I will be hurt thee : for I have much people

thy destruction : repentance shall in this city. Acts xviii. 10. Paul,

be hid from mine eyes. Hos. xiii. a servant of God, and an apostle

14. Christ hath redeemed us from of Jesus Christ, according to the

the curse of the law, being made a faith of God’s elect, and the ac-

curse for us. GaL iii. 13. Giving knowledging of the truth which is

thanks unto the Father, who hath after godliness : in hope of eternal

delivered us from the power of life, which God, that cannot lie,

darkness, and hath translated us promised before the world began,

into the kingdom of his dear Son. Tit. i. 1,2. Even so at this pre-

Col. i. 12. sent time also there is a remnant

f Elect according to the fore- according to the election of grace,

knowledge of God the Father. 1 Rom. xi. 5.

Pet. i.2. We are bound to give s This is the record that God

thanks alway to God for you, bre- hath given to us eternal life, and

thren, beloved of the Lord, be- this life is in his Son. He that

cause God hath from the beginning hath the Son hath life ; and he that

chosen you to salvation through hath not the Son of God hath not

sanctification of the Spirit, and be- life. 1 John v. 11, 12. That in the

lief of the truth: whereunto he dispensation of the fulness of times,

called you by our Gospel. 2 Thess. he might gather together in one

ii. 13, 14. Then spake the Lord all things in Christ, both which are

to Paul in the night by a vision, in heaven, and which are on earth,

Be not afraid, but speak, and hold even in hinu Eph. i. 10. Our fel-

bring them ‘by Christ “to everlasting salvation,

goodness, shortly to accomplish the number of thine elect, and to hasten thy kingdom ; that we, with all those that are de- parted in the true faith of thy holy name, may have our perfect consummation and bliss, both in body and soul, in thy eternal and everlasting glory, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen . Burial Service.

1 He shall pronounce the judgment, in whose faith and pro-

lowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. 1 John i. 3. As in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. 1 Cor. xv. 22. We are made par- takers of Christ if we hold the be- ginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end. Heb. iii. 14. But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption. 1 Cor. i. 30. There is therefore now no condemn- ation to them which are in Christ Jesus. Rom. viii. 1. Ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. 1 Cor. xii. 27. If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature. 2 Cor. v. 17.

1 As ye have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him : rooted and built up in him, and established in the faith. Col.ii.6,7. Abide in me and 1 in you : as the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine ; no more can ye except ye abide in me. John xv. 4. Abide in him : that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be asham- ed before him at his coming. 1 John ii. 28. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. John xvii. 16. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own : but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. John xv. 19. We know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wicked- ness. And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true ; and we are in him that is true, even in his Son lesus Christ. 1 John v. 19, 20.

Christ hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God. 1 Pet. iii. 18. Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by me. John xiv. 6. I am the door ; by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. John x. 9. Through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. Eph. ii. 18. By whom also we have ac- cess by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Rom. v. 2. Ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory. Col. iii. 3, 4. As the Father hath life in himself, so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself. John v. 26. Wherefore he is able to save them to the uttermost who come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. Heb. vii. 25. Who ve- rily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory ; that your faith and hope might be in God. 1 Pet. i.20, 21.

k Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. Phil, i. 6. In whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased pos- session unto the praise of his glory. Eph. i. 13, 14. Who are kept by

‘as vessels made to honour. Wherefore they which be endued with so excellent a benefit of God, m be called according to God’s pur-

tection we are, and which hath taken upon him the defence of our cause. Yea, our consciences are cheerfully stayed with a most singular comfort, and, in the midst of the miseries and woes of this life, do leap for joy that Christ shall one day be the Judge of the world ; for upon this hope we chiefly rest our- selves, that then at last we shall with unchangeable eternity possess that same kingdom of immortality and everlasting life, in all parts fully and abundantly perfect, which hitherto hath been but begun, and which was ordained and appointed for the children of God before the foundations of the world were laid. Nowell, p. 61. See also Article V. a.

m The Christian faith professeth that a great number and in- finite multitude of godly persons, gathered together out of all countries of the world, out of all parts of all nations every where, and all ages of all times, by the strength and power of his holy word and voice, and by the divine motion of his heavenly Spirit,

the power of God through faith i unto salvation, ready to be revealed in the last time. 1 Pet. i. 5. Israel shall be saved in the Lord with an everlasting salvation : ye shall not be ashamed nor confounded world without end. Is. xlv. 17. Thanks be to God which giveth us the vic- tory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. 1 Cor. xv. 57, 58.

1 Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make oue vessel unto honour and another unto dishonour? Rom. ix. 21. And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore pre- pared unto glory, even us whom he hath called. Rom. ix. 23, 24. In a great house there are not only ves- sels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth ; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master’s use, and prepared unto

every good work. 2 Tim. ii. 20,

m Moreover whom he did pre- destinate, them he also called. Rom. viii . 30. It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me. Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me except it were given unto him of my Father. John vii. 45, 65. No man can come to me except the Father which hath sent me draw him. John vi. 44. I have loved thee with an everlasting love : therefore with loving kindness have I drawn thee. Jer. xxxi. 3. 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. 3Iatt. xi. 25, 26. That the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth. — For he saith to Moses, I will have mer- cy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that

pose, °by his Spirit ° working in due season,

is by God incorporated into this church as into his own city; which all agreeing together in one true faith, one mind and voice, may be in all things obedient to Christ their only King, as members to their head. Xowell, p. (35.

Almighty and everlasting God, heavenly Father, we give thee humble thanks, that thou hast vouchsafed to call us to the knowledge of thy grace, and faith in thee : increase this know- ledge, and confirm this faith in us evermore. Bapt. Service.

And I heartily thank our heavenly Father, that he hath called me to this state of salvation, through Jesus Christ our Saviour. And I pray unto God to give me his grace, that I may continue in the same unto my life’s end. Catechism. See also Article XIX. b. XXVI. a.

° It is the Holy Ghost which inwardly worketh the regenera- tion and new-birth of mankind. — The more it (to regenerate) is

sheweth mercy. — Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hard- eneth. Rom. ix. 11, 15, 16, 18. We know that all thing’s work to- gether for good to them that love God. to them who are called accord- ing to his purpose. Rom. viii. 28. We are bound to give thanks al- way to God for you, brethren, be- loved of the Lord, becaxise God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation, through sanctifi- cation of the Spirit and belief of the truth : whereunto he called you by our Gospel to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Thess. ii. 13, 14. Holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling. Heb. iii. 1. Ye are a chosen gene- ration, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people ; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light. 1 Pet. ii. 9. God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 2 Cor. iv. 6. That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Fa- ther of glory, may give unto you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: the eyes of your understanding being en- lightened ; that ye may know what i«i the hope of his calling, and what

the riches of the glory of his inhe- ritance in the saints. Eph. i. 17, 18. Ye are called in one hope of your calling. Eph. iv. 4. Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, &c. 2 Tim. i. 9. Ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. 1 Cor. i. 26. The God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory. 1 Pet. v. 10. God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory. 1 Thess. ii. 12. Ye are thereunto called that ye should inherit a blessing. 1 Pet. iii. 9. Give diligence to make your calling and election sure. 2 Pet. i. 10. The gifts and calling of God are without repentance. Rom. xi. 29. God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fel- lowship of his Son Jesus Christ. 1 Cor. i. 9. They that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful. Rev.xvii. 14.

■ Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.’ Zech. iv. 6. As the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watercth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater : so shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth;

vThey through grace

hid from our understanding, the more it ought to move all men to wonder at the secret and mighty working of God’s Holy Spirit, which is within us. For it is the Holy Ghost and no other thing that doth quicken the minds of men, stirring up good and godly motions in their hearts, which are agreeable to the will and com- mandment of God. Horn, xxviii. 1. See Art. X.^ g.

p Forasmuch as the word is the wisdom of God, men should vainly labour in either teaching or learning it, unless God would vouchsafe with the teaching of his Spirit to instruct our hearts, as Paul teacheth, that in vain is the planting and the watering, unless God give the increase. Nowell, p. 0.

The words of holy Scripture be called words of everlasting life : for they be God’s instrument, ordained for the same pur- pose. They have power to turn through God’s promise, and they be effectual through God’s assistance, and (being re- ceived in a faithful heart) they have ever an heavenly spiritual Horn. i. 1.

working in them.

it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. Isa. lv. 10, 11.

° The wind bloweth where it list- eth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth : so is every one that is born of the Spirit. John iii. 8. It is God that worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Phil. ii. 13. God, who is rich in mercy for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved.) Eph. ii. 4, 5. Of his own will be- gat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of first- fruits of his creatures. James i. 18. According to his mercy he saved us by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. Tit. iii. 5. Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorrup- tible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. This is the word which by the Gospel is preached unto you. 1 Pet. i. 23, 25. 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. 1 Cor. ii. 4, 5. The kingdom of God

is not in word but in power. 1 Cor. iv. 20. Unto them which are call- ed, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. 1 Cor. i. 24. The last Adam was made a quick- ening Spirit. 1 Cor. xv. 45. The words that I speak unto you they are spirit and they are life. John vi. 63. The word of God effec- tually worketh in you that believe. 1 Thess. ii. 13. Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Rom. x. 17. The preach- ing of the cross is to them that perish foolishness ; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. 1 Cor. i. 18. Our Gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance. 1 Thess. i. 5. The entrance of thy words giveth light. Ps. cxix. 130. Sanctify them through thy truth : thy word is truth. John xvii. 17. The law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. Rom. viii. 2. If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus. Eph. iv. 21. Whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended to the things which were spoken of Paul . Acts xvi. 14.

P All that the Father giveth to me, shall come unto me. John vi. o 2

qobej the calling :

By faith given us of God we embrace the promise of God’s mercy, and of the remission of our sins. Horn. iii. 3. Art. X. d,

God instructing us with his word, and lightening our minds with his holy Spirit, maketh us apt to learn those things that otherwise would be far from entering into the dull capacity of our wits ; and sealing the promises of salvation in our souls, he so informeth us that we are most surely persuaded of the truth of them. Nowell, p. 77.

q Almighty God, who didst give such grace unto thy holy apostle Saint Andrew, that he readily obeyed the calling of thy Son Jesus Christ, and followed him without delay ; Grant unto us all, that we being called by thy holy word, may forthwith

37. Blessed is the man whom thou choosest, and causest to ap- preach unto thee, that he may dwell in thy courts. Ps. lxv. 4. I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me ; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me. John xvii. 8. Other sheep I have which are not of this fold: them also I must bring-, and they shall hear my voice. Ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: and 1 give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any pluck them out of my hand. John x. 16, 20, 28. For this cause also thank we God without ceas- ing, because when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe. 1 Thess. ii. 13. I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ : for it is the power of God to every one that believeth. Rom. i. 16. Bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. 2 Cor. x. 5. By grace are ye* saved through faith j and that not of yourselves ; it is the gift of God. Eph. ii. 8. According as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. Bom. xii. 3. Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.

1 Thess. v. 24. A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. John iii. 27. If God peradventure will give them re- pentance to the acknowledging of the truth. 2 Tim. ii. 25. To day, if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts. Heb. iii. 7. Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Rom. x. 17. Who then is Paul, and who is A polios, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man ? Neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth 5 but God that giveth the increase. For we are labourers together with God : ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building. 1 Cor. iii. 5, 7, 9. The hand of the Lord was with them : and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord. Acts xi. 21. When the Gentiles heard they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord, and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed. Acts xiii.

q Elect according to the fore- knowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit unto obedience and sprinklingof the blood of JesusChrist. lPet.i.2. By whom we have received grace and apostleship for obedience to the faith (or the obedience of faith) among all nations. Rom. i. 5. Mystery — by the Scriptures of the prophets, ac- cording to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of

r they be justified freely :

give up ourselves obediently to fulfil thy holy commandments, through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Coll. for St. Andrew’s Day.

O Almighty God, who by thy blessed Son didst call Matthew from the receipt of custom to be an Apostle and Evangelist ; Grant us grace to forsake all covetous desires and inordinate love of riches, and to follow the same thy Son Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth, with thee and the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen. Coll. for St. Matthew’s Day.

Grant, 0 merciful God, that as thine holy apostle St. James, leaving his father and all that he had, without delay was obe- client unto the calling of thy Son Jesus Christ, and followed him ; so we, forsaking all worldly and carnal affections, may be evermore ready to follow thy holy commandments, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Coll. for St. James’s Day.

r Justification is the office of God only, and is not a thing which we render unto him, but which we receive of him ; not which we give to him, but which we take of him, by his free mercy, and by the only merits of his most dearly beloved Son, our only Redeemer, Saviour, and Justifier, Jesus Christ. Horn.

faith. Rom. xvi. 26. As soon as they hear of me, they shall obey me. Ps. xviii. 44. Thy people shall be willing- in the day of thy power. Ps. ex. 3. Ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doc- trine which was delivered you. Rom. vi. 17. He became the au- thor of eternal salvation to all that obey him. Heb. v. 9. Ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit. 1 Pet. i. 22, In whom ye trusted after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Eph. i. 13. By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed ; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. Heb. xi. 8. We are of them that believe to the saving of the soul. Heb. x. 39. We through the Spirit wait for the hope of right- eousness by faith. Gal. v. 5. Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a pecu- liar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called us out of darkness into his marvellous light. 2 Pet. ii. 9. We

pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power. That the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Thess. i. 11.

r And whom he called, them he also justified. Rom. viii. 30. We have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law. Gal. ii. 16. The right- eousness of God is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe : being justified freely by his grace through the redemp- tion that is in Christ Jesus. Rom. iii. 22, 24. If by grace, then it is no more of works : otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace : otherwise work is no more work. Rom. x. 6. The free gift is of many offences unto justification. That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal

s they be made sons of God by adoption :

Justification doth God give us as a gift of his own dear love toward us, and of his liberality through Christ. When I speak of God’s gift and liberality, I mean it free and bountiful, without any our desert or merit : that it be God’s mere sincere liberality which he applieth to our salvation only, whom he loveth and which trust in him, not hired nor procured for wages, as it were a merchandize of his commodities and benefits, used by him for some profit to himself, requiring a gain of us, some recompense or price, which once to think, were to abate both the liberality and majesty of God. Notvell, p. 76. See also Article XI.

We flee to the mercy of God, whereby he freely embraceth us with love and good will in Christ, without any our deserving or respect of works, both forgiving us our sins, and so giving us the righteousness of Christ by faith in him, that for the same Christ’s righteousness he so accepteth us as if it were our own. To God’s mercy therefore through Christ we ought to impute all our justification. Nowell, p. 72.

Q. Thou sayest then that faith is not the cause, but the in- strument of justification, for that it embraceth Christ, which is our justification, coupling us with so straight a bond to him, that it maketh us partakers of all his good things. A. Yea for- sooth. Nowell, p. 73.

8 We are by the Spirit’s divine instinct and inspiration newly

life by Jesus Christ our Lord, to them that believe on his name : Rom. v. 16, 21. To bring in ever- which were born not of blood, nor lasting righteousness. Dan. ix. 24. of the will of the flesh, nor of the That being justified by his grace will of man, but of God. John i. we should be made heirs according 12, 13. Behold, what manner of to the hope of eternal life. Tit. iii. love the Father hath bestowed 7. Therefore being justified by upon us, that we should be called faith, we have peace with God, the sons of God. 1 John iii. . through our Lord Jesus Christ. To redeem them that were under Rom. v. 1. Every tongue that the law, that we might receive the shall rise in judgment thou shalt adoption of sons: and because ye condemn. This is the heritage of are sons, God hath sent forth the the servants of the Lord, and their Spirit of his Son into your hearts, righteousness is of me, saith the crying, Abba, Father; — and if a Lord. Isa. liv. 17. Who shall lay son, then an heir of God through any thing to the charge of God’s Christ. Gal. iv. 5 — 7. He that over- elect? It is God that justifieth. cometh shall inherit all things, and Rom. viii. 33. In the Lord shall I will be his God, and he shall be all the seed of Israel be justified, my son. Rev. xxi. 7. As many as and shall glory. Isa. xlv. 25. are led by the Spirit of God they s Having predestinated us to the are the sous of God. For ye have adoption of children by Jesus not received the spirit of bondage Christ to himself. Eph. i. 5. Ye again to fear; but ye have re- are all the children of God by ceived the Spirit of adoption, faith in Christ Jesus. Gal. iii. 26. whereby we cry Abba, Father. As many as received him, to them The Spirit itself beareth witness gave he power (right or privilege) with our spirit, that we are the to become the sons of God, even children of God: and if children

t they be made like the image

begotten, and therefore Christ said that we must be born again of water and the Spirit. Also by his heavenly breathing on us, God the Father doth adopt us his children, and therefore he is worthily called the Spirit of adoption. Nowell, p. 63.

God hath freely through Christ made and adopted us his children. The name of children by right of adoption is freely imparted to us through Christ. Nowell, p. 44.

1 Christ hath set himself for an exemplar for us to follow, to frame our life according thereunto. Where Christ died for sin and was buried, he but once suffered the same. Where he once rose again and ascended into heaven, he but once rose again, and but once ascended ; he now dieth no more, but enjoyeth eternal life, and reigneth in most high and everlasting glory. So if we be once dead and buried to sin, how shall we here- after live in the same ? If we be risen again with Christ, if by assured faith and stedfast hope w e be conversant with him in heaven, then ought we from henceforth to bend all our cares and thoughts upou heavenly, divine, and eternal things, not earthly, worldly, and transitory. And as we have heretofore borne the image of the earthly man, we ought from henceforth to put on the image of the heavenly man, quietly and patiently bearing, after his example, all sorrows and wrongs, and following and expressing his other divine virtues so far as mortal man be able. And whereas Christ our Lord never ceaseth to do us good, continually to intreat for and to crave his Father’s mercy for us, to give us his holy Spirit, and wonderfully and continually to

then heirs : heirs of God, and joint- thou in me, that they may be made heirs with Christ; if so be that we perfect in one; and that the world suffer with him, that we may be may know that thou hast sent me, also glorified together. Rom. viii. and hast loved them, as thou hast 14 — 17. It shall come to pass, that loved me. I have declared unto in the place where it was said them thy name, and will declare it ; unto them, Ye are not my people, that the love wherewith thou hast there it shall be said unto them, Ye loved me may be in them, and I in are the sons of the living God. them. John xvii. 16, 19, 22, 23, 26. Hos. i. 10. It pleased God, who separated me * Whom he did foreknow, he from my mother’s womb, and called also did predestinate to be con- me by his grace, to reveal his Son formed to the image of his Son, in me. Gal. i. 15, 16. Yea doubt- that he might be the first-born less, and I count all things but loss among many brethren. Rom. viii. for the excellency of the know- 29. They are not of the world, ledge of Christ Jesus my Lord : for even as 1 am not of the world. — whom I have suffered the loss of For their sakes I sanctify myself, all things, and do count them but that they also might be sanctified dung, that I may win Christ, and through the truth. — And the glory be found in him: — that I may which thou hast given me I have know him, aud the power of his given them ; that they may be one, resurrection, and the fellowship of even as we are one : 1 in them, and his sufferings, being made con-

of his only-begotten Son Jesus Christ :

garnish his church with most liberal gifts ; it is meet that we in like manner, with our whole endeavour, should help our neigh- bour, and that we be bound to all men in most straight bonds of love, concord, and most near friendship, so much as shall lie in us, and so to be wholly framed after the manners of Christ as our only exemplar. Nowell, p. 59.

And there should be no greater comfort to Christian persons, than to be made like unto Christ, by suffering patiently adver- sities, troubles, and sicknesses. For he himself went not up to joy, but first he suffered pain ; he entered not into his glory be- fore he was crucified. So truly our way to eternal joy is to suffer here with Christ ; and our door to enter into eternal life is gladly to die with Christ; that we may rise again from death, and dwell with him in everlasting life. Visitation of the Sick.

Almighty God, who hast given thine only Son to be unto us both a sacrifice for sin, and also an ensample of godly life ; Give us grace that we may always most thankfully receive that his inestimable benefit, and also daily endeavour ourselves to follow the blessed steps of his most holy life, through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Coll. for the second Sunday after Easter.

formable unto his death ; if by any means I might attain unto the re- surrection of the dead. Phil. iii. 8 — 11. So many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death. Therefore we are buried with him by bap- tism into death : that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. If we have been planted to- gether in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection : knowing this that our old man is ci-ucified with him, that the body of sin might be de- stroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ we believe that we shall also live with him: knowing that Christ being raised from the dead, dieth no more ; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once; but in that he liv- eth, he liveth unto God. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be

dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Rom. vi. 3—11. Col. ii. 10— 13. If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature : old things are pass- ed away; behold all things are become new. 2 Cor. v. 17. As many of you as have been baptized into Christ, have put on Christ. Gal. iii. 27. He that saith he abideth in him, ought himself also so to walk even as he walked. 1 John ii. 6. If we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. 1 John i. 7. Righteousness shall go before him, and shall set us in the way of his steps. Ps. lxxxv. 13. Hereunto were ye called : because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps. 1 Pet. ii. 21. Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus. Phil. ii. 5. Forasmuch as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind : for he that hath

u they walk religiously

Grant, O Lords that as we are baptized into the death of thy blessed Son our Saviour Jesus Christ ; so by continual mortify- ing our corrupt affections, we may be buried with him; and that through the grave and gate of death we may pass to our joyful resurrection, for his merits, who died and was buried, and row ai;ain for us, thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Coll. for Ea.sttr Even.

O God, whose blessed Son was manifested, that he might de- stroy the works of the devil, and make us the sons of God, and heirs of eternal life ; Grant us, we beseech thee, that having this hope, we may purify ourselves even as he is pure ; that when he shall appear again with power and great glory, we may be made like unto him in his eternal and glorious kingdom, where with thee, O Father, and thee, O Holy Ghost, he liveth and reignelh, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Coll. for the sixth Sunday after the Epiphany.

u God of his mercy and special favour towards them, whom he hath appointed to everlasting salvation, hath so offered his grace especially, and they have so received it fruitfully, that al-

suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin ; that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. 1 Pet. iv. 1, 2. Always bearing- about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. 2 Cor. iv. 10. Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children ; and Avalk in love, as Ghrist also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offer- ing and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savour. Eph. v. ], 2. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. Matt. xi. 29. A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another j as I have loved you, that ye love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. John xiii. 34. Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, hum- bleness of mind, meekuess, long- suffering ; — even as Ghrist forgave you; so also do ye. Col. iii. 12. As we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the

image of the heavenly. 1 Cor. xv. 49. We all, with open face be- holding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. 2 Cor. iii. 18. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be ; but we know that when he shall appear, we shall belike him, for we shall see him as he is. 1 John iii. 2. As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness ; I shall be satis- fied when I awake with thy like- ness. Ps. xvii. 15.

u The Lord knoweth the way of the righteous. Ps. i. 6. He hath chosen us in him that we should be holy and without blame before him in love. Eph. i. 4. Ye have not chosen me, but 1 have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go, and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain. John xv. 16. Purify unto himself a peculiar people zealous of good works. Tit. ii. 14. We are his workmanship, created in Christ Je- sus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. Eph. ii. 10. That the man of God may be perfect, P

in good works,

though, by reason of their sinful living outwardly, they seemed before to have been the children of wrath and perdition ; yet now, the Spirit of God mightily working in them, unto obe- dience to God’s will and commandments, they declare by their outward deeds and life, in the shewing of mercy and charity — which cannot come but of the Spirit of God, and his especial grace — that they are the undoubted children of God, appointed to everlasting life. And so, as by their wickedness and ungodly living they shewed themselves, according to the judgment of men, which follow the outward appearance, to be reprobates and cast-aways ; so now, by their obedience unto God’s holy will, and by their mercifulness and tender pity — wherein they shew themselves to be like unto God, who is the fountain and spring of all mercy — they declare openly and manifestly unto the sight of men, that they are the sons of God, and elect of him unto salvation. Horn, xxiii. 2.

By faith we receive Christ such as he delivereth himself unto us. But he doth not only set us at liberty from sins and death, and make us at one with God, but also with the divine inspira- tion and virtue of the Holy Ghost doth regenerate and newly form us, to the endeavour of innocency and holiness, which we

call newness of life. Good works do stand upon faith as upon

their root. It doth most vehemently stir us up to the endeavour of a good life ; yea, and so far, that he is not truly faithful that doth not also to his power shun vices and embrace virtues, so living always as one that looketh to give an account. Nowell, p. 73, 74.

throughly furnished unto every the Lord unto all pleasing-, being good work. 2 Tim. iii. 17. This is fruitful in every good work. Col. i. a faithful saying, and these things 10. This woman was full of good (see ver. 4 — 7.) I will, that thou works, and almsdeeds, which she affirm constantly (<»«, in order) did. Acts ix. 36. Let your light so that they which have believed in shine before men, that they may see God might be careful to maintain your good works, and glorify your good works. Tit. iii. 8. Adorn the Father which is in heaven. Matt. v. doctrine of God our Saviour in all 16. Charge them that are rich in things. Tit. ii. 10. Teaching us this world — that they do good, that that, denying ungodliness and they be rich in good works, ready worldly lusts, we should live so- to distribute, -willing to communi- berly, righteously, and godly, in cate. 1 Tim. vi. 10. Giving all this present world. Tit.ii. 12. That diligence, add to your faith virtue; ye would walk worthy of God, who and to virtue knowledge ; and to hath called you unto his kingdom knowledge temperance; and to tem- aud glory. 1 Thess. ii. 12. Walk perance patience ;, and to patience worthy of the vocation wherewith godliness ; and to godliness bro- ye are called. Eph.iv.l. Let your therly kindness ; and to brotherly conversation be as it becometh the kindness charity. 2 Pet. i. 5 — 7. Gospel of Christ. Phil. i. 27. Our Finally, brethren,whatsoever things conversation is in heaven. Phil. iii. are true, whatsoever things are ho- 20. That ye might walk worthy of nest, whatsoever things are just,

w and at length,

And reason it is that we being redeemed with the blood of Christ the Son of God, and having beside received innumerable and infinite benefits of God, should live and wholly frame our- selves after the will and appointment of our Redeemer, and so shew ourselves mindful and thankful to the Author of our sal- vation, and by our example procure and win other unto him. Notvell, p. 76.

Almighty and merciful God, of whose only gift it cometh that thy faithful people do unto thee true and laudable service ; Grant, we beseech thee, that we may so faithfully serve thee in this life, that we fail not finally to attain thy heavenly promises, through the merits of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Coll. for the thir- teenth Sunday after Trinity.

Merciful Lord, we beseech thee to cast thy bright beams of light upon thy Church ; that it being enlightened by the doc- trine of thy blessed Apostle and Evangelist Saint John, may so walk in the light of thy truth, that it may at length attain to the light of everlasting life, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Coll. for St. John the Evangelist’s Day.

O Almighty God, who hast knit together thine elect in one communion and fellowship, in the mystical body of thy Son Christ our Lord ; Grant us grace so to follow thy blessed Saints in all virtuous and godly living, that we may come to those un- speakable joys, which thou hast prepared for them that unfeign- edly love thee, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Coll. for All Saints’ Dai/.

w And, as while God reigneth by his Spirit in us, men have a certain community with God in this world, so we pray and wish that he will also by Christ communicate with us in heaven the joy of the most blessed kingdom, and the glory that in everlast- ing ages of worlds shall never be changed, that we may be not only children but also heirs of our heavenly Father; which desire also we verily nothing distrust or doubt, that our heavenly Father will one day grant us to enjoy. Nowell, p. 90.

He rose from death, and we also are risen again with him, being so made partakers of his resurrection and life, that from henceforth death hath no more dominion over us. For in us is the same Spirit which raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Be- side that, since the ascension, we have most abundantly received the gifts of the holy Ghost, he hath also lifted and carried us up into heaven with him, that we might, as it were with our head, take possession thereof. These things indeed are not yet seen ; but then shall they be brought abroad into light, when Christ

whatsoever things are pure, what- praise, think on these things. Phil, soever things are lovely, whatsoever iv. 8.

things are of good report ; if there w In due season we shall reap, if be any virtue, and if there be anv we faint not. Gal. vi. 9.

p 2

xby God’s mercy, y they attain to everlasting felicity.

which is the light of the world, in whom all our hope and wealth is set and settled, shining with immortal glory, shall shew him- self openly to all men. Nowell, p. 58.

God hath delivered all men that be his, by his Son Jesus Christ, from the spiritual thraldom of sin and the tyranny of the devil, wherein else they had lain pressed and oppressed. This kind of deliverance pertaineth indifferently to all men which put their trust in God their deliverer, and, to their power, obey his laws. Norvell, p. 10.

All they which behold Christ crucified with a true and lively faith, shall undoubtedly be delivered from the grievous wounds of the soul, be they never so deadly or many in number. Horn.

x 0 God, who declarest thy almighty power most chiefly in shewing mercy and pity; Mercifully grant unto us such a mea- sure of thy grace, that we running the way of thy command- ments, may obtain thy gracious promises, and be made partakers of thy heavenly treasure, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Coll. for the eleventh Sunday after Trinity.

Keep, we beseech thee, O Lord, thy Church with thy perpe- tual mercy : and because the frailty of man without thee cannot but fall, keep us ever by thy help from all things hurtful, and lead us to all things profitable to our salvation, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Coll. for the fifteenth Sunday after Trinity.

y O God, the protector of all that trust in thee, without whom nothing is strong, nothing is holy ; increase and multiply upon

• With great mercies will I ga- ther thee. With everlasting kind- ness will I have mercy on thee, saith the Lord thy Redeemer. Is. liv. 7, 8. 1 will make an everlast- ing-covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. Is. lv. 3. The mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him. Ps. ciii. 17. It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compas- sions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. Lam. iii.22,23. For I am the Lord, I change not ; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. Mal.iii.6. So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy. Rom. ix. 16. The Lord give mercy unto the

house of Onesiphorus. The Lord grant unto him, that he may find mercy of the Lord in that day. 2 Tim. i. 16, 18. Jude — to them that are sanctified by God the Fa- ther, and preserved in Jesus Christ. Jude 1. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me : and I give unto them eternal life ; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. John x. 27, 28.

y They which are called receive the promise of eternal inheritance. Heb. ix. 15. And this is the Fa- ther’s will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the

As the godly consideration of predesti-

us thy mercy, that thou being our ruler and guide, we may so pass through things temporal, that we finally lose not the things eternal : grant this, 0 heavenly Father, for Jesus Christ’s sake our Lord. Amen. Coll. for the fourth Sunday after Trinity.

Lord of all power and might, who art the author and giver of all good things; Graft in our hearts the love of thy Name, increase in us true religion, nourish us with all goodness, and of thy great mercy keep us in the same, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Coll. for the seventh Sunday after Trinity .

Assist us mercifully, O Lord, in these our supplications and prayers, and dispose the way of thy servants towards the attain- ment of everlasting salvation ; that among all the changes and chances of this mortal life, they may ever be defended by thy most gracious and ready help, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Communion Service.

Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting- life 5 and I will raise him up at the last day. John vi. 39, 40. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing- he ever liveth to make intercession for them. Heb. vii. 25. Much more being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. Rom. v. 10. Verily, verily, 1 say unto you, He that be- lieveth on me hath everlasting life. John vi. 47. And shall not come into condemnation ; but is passed from death unto life. Ver. 24. Even so might grace reign through righ- teousness unto eternal life. Rom. v. 21. The gift of God is eternal life, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Rom. vi.23. This is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life. 1 John T.ll. My salvation shall be forever, and my righteousness shall not be abolished. Is. li. 6. Israel shall be saved in the Lord with an ever- lasting salvation : ye shall not be ashamed nor confounded world without end. Is. xlv. 17. In whom also we have obtained an inherit- ance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him, who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will. Eph. i. 11. An inherit- ance reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation, ready to be revealed in the last time.

1 Pet. i. 4, 5. The Lord knoweth the days of the upright, and their inheritance shall be for ever. P6. xxxvii. 18. Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is ful- ness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. Ps. xvi. 11. The God of all grace hath called us unto his eternal glory. IPet.v. 10. He called you by our Gospel to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Thess. ii.14. And whom he justified, them he also glorified. Rom. viii. 30. A partaker of the glory that shall be revealed. 1 Pet. v. 1. I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be re- vealed in us. Rom. viii. 18. Our light affliction worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. 2 Cor. iv. 17. Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am ; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me -. for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. John xvii. 24. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me. John xvii. 11. I will make an everlasting covenant with them, that I will not turn away from them to do them good; but I will put my fear in their hearts, that they shall not depart from me. Jer, xxxii. 40.

nation2, and our election in Christ, is full of sweet, pleasant, and unspeakable comfort to

7- See reference a above.

My grace is sufficient for thee. 2 Cor. xii. 9. The Lord will per- fect that which concerneth me : thy mercy, O Lord, endureth for ever : forsake not the works of thine own hands. Ps. cxxxviii. 8. Being confident of this very thing-, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. Phil. i. 6. The path of the just is as the shin- ing light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. Prov. iv. 18. He preserveth the way of his saints. Prov. ii. 8. He will keep the feet of his saints. 1 Sam. ii. 9. Their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord. Is. liv. 17. Whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world. 1 John v. 4. The righteous shall hold on his way, and he that hath clean hands shall be stronger and stronger. Job xvii. 9. The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord : and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be ut- terly cast down : for the Lord up- holdeth him with his hand. Depart from evil, and do good 5 and dwell for evermore. Ps. xxxvii. 23, 24, 27. I am continually with thee : thou hast holden me by my right hand. Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory. Ps. lxxiii. 23, 24. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the founda- tion of the world. Matt. xxv. 34. Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory, with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen. Jude 24, 25.

1 What shall we say then to these things : If God be for us, who shall be against us ? Rom. viii. 31. The Lord is my light, and my salvation ; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the

strength of my life ; of whom shall I be afraid ? Ps. xxvii. 1. Know that the Lord hath set apart him that is godly for himself : the Lord will hear when I call unto him. Ps. iv. 3. Behold, God is my salvation ; I will trust and not be afraid : for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song ; he also is become my salvation. Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation. Is. xii. 2, 3. God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: that by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong con- solation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us : which hope we have as an an- chor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil. Heb. vi. 17— 19. Kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. Wherein ye greatly rejoice. 1 Pet. i. 5, 6. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Phil. i. 21 . Happy art thou, O Israel ; who is like unto thee, O people, saved by the Lord, the shield of thy help, and who is the sword of thy excellency? Deut. xxxiii. 29. We joy in God, through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement. Rom. v. 11. In whom believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory : receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls. 1 Pet. i. 8, 9. Rejoice, because your names are written in heaven. Luke x. 20. That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of un- derstanding, to the acknowledg- ment of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ. Col. ii. 2. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual bless- ings in heavenly places in Christ :

Ill

godly persons, » and such as feel in them- selves the working of the Spirit of Christ,

a In them that through faith are of one body with Christ, crooked affections and corrupt desires, which we call the lusts of the flesh, are, as it were crucified with him, and die, so as they have no more dominion in our souls. Nowell, p. 48.

Almighty and everlasting God, by whose Spirit the whole body of the Church is governed and sanctified ; Receive our supplications and prayers, which we offer before thee for all estates of men in thy holy Church ; that every member of the same, in his vocation and ministry, may truly and godly serve thee, through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.

Almighty God, who madest thy blessed Son to be circumcised, and obedient to the law for man ; Grant us the true circumcision of the Spirit ; that our hearts and all our members being mor- tified from all worldly and carnal lusts, we may in all things obey thy blessed will, through the same thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Coll. for the Circumcision of Christ.

according- as he hath chosen us in even as he is pure. 1 John iii. 3. him, &c. Eph. i. 2. Now our Lord Put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, Jesus Christ himself, and God, even and make not provision for the flesh, our Father, which hath loved us, and to fulfil the lusts thereof. Rom.xiii. given us everlasting consolation and 14. The flesh lusteth against the good hope through grace, comfort Spirit, and the Spirit against the your hearts, and stablish you in flesh ; and these are contrary the every good word and work. 2Thess. one to the other. Gal. v. 17. Mor- ii. 16, 17. Now the God of hope tify your members which are upon fill you with all joy and peace in the earth. Col. iii. 5. That Christ believing, that ye may abound in may dwell in your hearts by faith, hope, through the power of the Eph. iii. 17. The water that I shall Holy Ghost. Rom. xv. 13. give him shall be in him a well of a Prove your own selves. Know water springing up into everlasting ye not your own selves, how that life. John iv. 14. Who shall change Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be our vile body, that it may be fa- reprobates ? 2 Cor. xiii. 5. Christ shioned like unto his glorious body, iu you the hope of glory. Christ according to the working whereby formed in you. Col. i. 27. Gal.iv.19. he is able even to subdue all things If any man have not the Spirit of unto himself. Phil. iii. 21. Now he Christ, he is none of his. And if which stablisheth us with you in Christ be in you, the body is dead Christ, and hath anointed us, is because of sin, but the spirit is life God; who hath also sealed us, and because of righteousness. Rom.vii. given the earnest of the Spirit in 9, 10. According to his working, our hearts. 2 Cor. i. 21, 22. Grieve which worketh in me mightily. Col. not the Holy Spirit, whereby ye are i. 29. I am crucified with Christ: sealed unto the day of redemption, nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Eph. iv. 30. As many as are led Christ liveth in me : and the life by the Spirit of God, they are the which 1 now live in the flesh, I live sons of God. The Spirit itself bear- by the faith of the Son of God, who eth witness with our spirit, that we loved me, and gave himself for me. are the children of God. Rom. viii. Gal. ii. 20. Every man that hath 14, 15. this hope in him purifieth himself

b mortifying the works of the flesh, and their earthly members, c and drawing up their mind to

b The mortifying- of the old man is unfeigned and sincere ac- knowledging and confession of sin, and these with a shame and sorrow of mind, with the feeling whereof a person is sore grieved for that he hath swerved from righteousness, and not been obe- client to the will of God. For every man ought, in remembering the sins of his life past, wholly to mislike himself, to be angry with himself, and to be a severe judge of his own faults, and to give sentence and to pronounce judgment of himself, to the in- tent he abide not the grievous judgment of God in his wrath. This sorrow some have called contrition, whereunto are joined in nearness and nature an earnest hatred of sin, and a love and desire of righteousness lost. Noivell, p. 70.

c The renewing of the Spirit or quickening of the new man is when faith cometh, and refresheth and lifteth up the mind so troubled, assuageth sorrow, and comforteth the person, and doth revoke and raise him up again from desperation, to hope of obtaining pardon of God through Christ, and from the gate of death, yea, from hell itself, unto life. Newell, p. 5G.

He sendeth down his Holy Spirit into our hearts, as a most sure pledge of his good-will, by which Spirit he bringeth us out of darkness and mist into open light; he giveth sight to the blindness of our minds; he chaseth sorrow out of our hearts, and healeth the wounds thereof ; and with the divine motion of his Spirit he causeth that looking up to heaven, we raise up our minds and hearts frem the ground, from corrupt affections and

b Every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corrup- tible crown; but we an incorrup- tible. 1 Cor. ix. 25. I keep under my body, and bring it into subjec- tion ; lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a cast-away. 1 Cor. ix. 27. They that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affec- tions and lusts. Gal. v. 24. Teach- ing us that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world. Tit. ii. 12. If ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. Rom. viii. 12. It is a faithful say- ing: for if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him : if we suffer with him, we shall also reign with him. 2 Tim. ii.l 1,12. Rom.vi.8.

c The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath. Prov. xv. 24. Hath raised us up together, and made us sit to- gether in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. Eph. ii. 6. If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sit- teth at the right hand of God. Set your affections on things above, not on things on the earth. Col. iii. 1,2. For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Rom. viii. 6. Fear not, little flock ; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the king- dom. Sell that ye have, and give alms ; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the hea ens, that faileth not. Luke xii. 32, 33. Lay up for yourselves

treasures in heaven For where

your treasure is, there will your

high and heavenly things ; as well because it d doth greatly establish and confirm their faith of

from earthly things, upward to the place where Christ is at the right hand of his Father, that we, thinking upon and beholding things above and heavenly, and so raised up and of upright mind, con- temn these our base things, life, death, riches, poverty, and with lofty and high courage despise all worldly things. Norvcll, p. 56. See also Art. V. b.

Grant, we beseech thee, Almighty God, that like as we do believe thy only-begotten Son our Lord Jesus Christ to have ascended into the heavens ; so we may also in heart and mind thither ascend, and with him continually dwell, who liveth and reigneth, with thee and the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen. Coll. for the Ascension-day.

d Knowing that we be, by this benefit of his resurrection, risen with him by our faith unto life everlasting ; being in full surety of our hope, that we shall have our bodies likewise raised again from death, to have them glorified in immortality, and joined to his glorious body; having in the mean while his Holy Spirit within our hearts, as a seal and pledge of our everlasting inheritance — by whose assistance we be replenished with all righteousness, by whose power we shall be able to subdue all our evil affections, rising against the pleasure of God — these things, I say, well considered, let us now, in the rest of our life declare our faith that we have in this most fruitful article, by

heart be also. Matt. vi. 20, 21. Our conversation is in heaven,, from whence also we look for the Sa- viour, the Lord Jesus Christ. Phil, iii. 20. We walk by faith, not by- sight. 2 Cor. v. 7. Our affliction worketh for us a far more exceed- ing and eternal weight of glory ; while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen ; for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. — We are confident, 1 say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. 2 Cor. iv. 17, 18. v. 1, 8. Whom have I in heaven but thee, and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee ? Ps. lxxiii. 25.

d What shall we say then to these things ? If God be for us, who can be against us ? Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect ? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth ? It is Christ that died, yea, rather that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh interces- sion for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ ? I am per- suaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Rom. viii. 31, 33—- 35, 38, 39. The Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil. 2 Thess. iii. 3. He which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God. 2 Cor. i. 21. Who shall also

eternal salvation, to be enjoyed through Christ ;

framing ourselves thereunto, in rising daily from sin to righ- teousness and holiness of life. If these and such other heavenly virtues ye ensue in the residue of your life, ye shall shew plainly that ye be risen with Christ, and that ye be the heavenly children of your Father in heaven ; from whom, as from the Giver, cometh these graces and gifts. (James i. 5.) Apply yourselves, good friends, to live in Christ, that Christ may still live in you ; whose favour and assistance if ye have, then have ye everlasting life already within you ; then can nothing hurt you. (John v. 24.) Thus shall we declare that Christ’s gifts and graces have their effect in us, and that we have the right belief and knowledge of his holy resurrection : where truly, if we apply our faith to the virtue thereof, and in our life conform us to the example and signification meant thereby, we shall be sure to rise hereafter to everlasting glory, by the goodness and mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ: to whom with the Father and the Holy Ghost be all glory, thanksgiving, and praise, in infinita seculorum secala. Amen. Horn. xxvi.

A quick or lively faith is a true trust, and confidence of the mercy of God through our Lord Jesus Christ, and a stedfast hope of all good things to be received at God’s hand : and that although we, through infirmity, or temptation of our ghostly enemy, do fall from him by sin ; yet if we return again unto

confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Cor. i. 8. The work of righteousness shall be peace ; and the effect of righteous- ness quietness and assurance for ever. Is. xxxii. 17. We desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end. Heb. vi. 11. Give diligence to make your calling and election sure. 2 Pet. i. 10. If children, then heirs, heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. Rom. viii. 17. We know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. We that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened : not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swal- lowed up of life. Now he that hath wrought us for the self-same

thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit. 2 Cor. v. 1, 4, 5. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Luke xii. 32. I give unto them eternal life ; and they shall never perish, neither shall any pluck them out of my hand. My Father which gave them me is greater than all ; and none is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand. John x. 28, 29. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righ- teousness, which the Lord the righteous Judge shall give me at that day : and not to me only, but unto all them that love his appear- ing. 2 Tim. iv. 8. Hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. 1 John iii. 19. Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 1 Pet. i. 13. Seeing it is a righ-

as because it r doth fervently kindle their love

him by true repentance, that he will forgive and forget our of- fences for his Son’s sake, our Saviour Jesus Christ, and will make us inheritors with him of his everlasting kingdom ; and that in the mean time, until that kingdom come, he will be our pro- tector and defender in all perils and dangers, whatsoever do chance : and that though sometimes he doth send us sharp ad- versity, yet that evermore he will be a loving Father unto us, correcting us for our sins, but not withdrawing his mercy finally from us, if we trust in him, and commit ourselves wholly unto him, hang only upon him, and call upon him, ready to obey and serve him. This is the true, lively, and unfeigned Christian faith. Horn. iv. 1.

All those therefore have great cause to be full of joy that be joined to Christ with true faith, stedfast hope, and perfect cha- rity; and not to fear death, nor everlasting damnation. For death cannot deprive them of Jesus Christ, nor can any sin con- demn them that are grafted surely in him, which is their only joy, treasure, and life. Let us repent of our sins, amend our lives, trust in his mercy and satisfaction ; and death can neither take him from us, nor us from him. Horn. x. 2.

Therefore if we have Christ, then have we with him, and by him, all good things whatsoever we can in our hearts wish or desire; as victory over death, sin, and hell: we have the favour of God, peace with him, holiness, wisdom, justice, power, life, and redemption ; we have by him perpetual health, wealth, joy, and bliss everlasting. Horn. ix. 1.

e And seeing he hath so greatly loved thee, endeavour thyself to love him again, with all thy heart, with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, that therein thou mayest appear not to be un- worthy of his love.

teous thing- with God to recom- pense to you who are troubled

rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven. 2 Thess. ii. 6, 7. Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am ; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me : for thou lovedst me before the founda- tion of the world. John xvii. 24. If by one man’s offence death reigned by one ; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ. Rom. v. 17. Let no man glory in men : for all things are yours, whether Paul, or Apollos,

or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come, all are yours ; and ye are Christ’s, and Christ is God’s. 1 Cor. iii. 21—23. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be : but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him ; for we shall see him as he is. 1 Johniii. 2.

e We love him, because he first loved us. 1 John iv. 19. If any man love God, the same is known of him. 1 Cor. viii. 3. Let us not love in word, neither in tongue 5 but in deed, and in truth. And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. 1 John iii. 18, 19. Wo

towards God ; so f for curious and s carnal per- sons, h lacking the Spirit of Christ, to have

O Almighty God, who alone canst order the unruly wills and affections of sinful men; Grant unto thy people that they may love the thing which thou commandest, and desire that which thou dost promise ; that so among the sundry and manifold changes of the world, our hearts may surely there be fixed, where true joys are to be found, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Coll. for the fourth Sunday after Easter.

O Lord, who never failest to help and govern them whom thou dost bring up in thy stedfast fear and love ; keep us, we beseech thee, under the protection of thy good providence ; and make us to have a perpetual fear and love of thy holy Name, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Coll. for the second Sunday after Trinity.

O God, who hast prepared for them that love thee such good things as pass man’s understanding ; pour into our hearts such love toward thee, that we loving thee above all things, may ob- tain thy promises, which exceed all that we can desire, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Coll. for the sixth Sunday after Trinity.

have known and believed 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. There is no fear in love : but perfect love casteth out fear : because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. 1 John iv. 16 — 18. Hope maketh not ashamed, because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. Rom. v. 5. The Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ. 2 Thess. iii. 5. We know that all things work together for good to them that love God, Rom. viii. 28. Ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. Jude 20, 21. Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life,

which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. James i. 12.

f Intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, and not holding the head, from which all the body, by joints and bands, having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God. Col. ii. 18, 19. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the traditions of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. Col. ii. 8.

% Because the carnal mind is en- mity against God ; for it is not sub- ject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. Rom. viii. 7. The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God : for they are foolishness to him, neither can he know them, because they are spiri- tually discerned. 1 Cor. ii. 14.

h These be sensual, having not the Spirit. Jude 19. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. John iii. 6. If any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. Rom. viii. 9. Lord, my heart

continually before their eyes the sentence of God’s predestination, is a most dangerous downfall, whereby the devil doth thrust them 1 either into

1 They therefore that have no mind at all neither to read nor yet to hear God’s word, there is but small hope of them that they will as much as onee set their feet, or take hold upon the first staff or step of this ladder ; but rather will sink deeper and deeper into the bottomless pit of perdition. For if at any time, through the remorse of their conscience, which accuseth them, they feel any inward grief, sorrow, or heaviness for their sins, forasmuch as they want the salve and comfort of God’s word, which they do despise, it will be unto them rather a mean to bring them to utter desperation, than otherwise. Horn, xxxii.2.

” He is set forth for the fall and rising again of many in Israel.” As Christ Jesus is a fall to the reprobate, which yet perish through their own default; so is his word, yea the whole book of God, a cause of damnation unto them through their in- credulity. And as he is a rising up to none other than those which are God s children by adoption ; so is his word, yea, the

is not haughty, nor mine eyes things ; in which are some things lofty: neither do I exercise myself hard to be understood, which they in great matters, or in things too that are unlearned and unstable high for me. Surely I have be- wrest, as they do also the other haved and quieted myself, as a Scriptures, unto their own destruc- child that is weaned of his mother: tion. 2 Pet. iii. 15, 16. God our my soul is even as a weaned child. Saviour will have all men to be Let Israel hope in the Lord from saved, and to come unto the know- henceforth and for ever. Ps. ledge of the truth. 1 Tim. ii. 4. cxxxi. Not willing that any should perish ;

1 Thou saidst, There is no hope : but that all should come to repent- No; for I have loved strangers, ance. 2 Pet. iii. 9. Have I any and after them will I go. Jer. ii. pleasure at all that the wicked 25. And they said, There is no should die ? saith the Lord God : hope ; but we will walk every one and not that he should turn from

after our own devices, and we will his ways and live ? 1 have no

every one do the imagination of his pleasure in the death of him that evil heart. Jer. xviii. 12. Will ye dieth, saith the Lord God; where- come and stand before me in this fore turn yourselves and live. Ezek. house, which is called by my name, xviii. 23, 32. Therefore, O thou and say, We are delivered to do all son of man, speak unto the house these abominations. Jer. vii. 10. of Israel. Thus ye speak, saying, Despisest thou the riches of his If our transgressions and our sins goodness, and forbearance, and long- be upon us, and we pine away in suffering; not knowing that the them, how should we then live? goodness of God leadeth thee to Say unto them, As I live, saith the repentance. Rom. ii. 5. Account Lord God, I have no pleasure in that the long-suffering of our Lord the death of the wicked ; but that is salvation ; even as our beloved the wicked turn from his way and brother Paul also, according to the live : turn ye, turn ye from your wisdom given unto him, hath writ- evil ways ; for why will ye die, ten unto you : as also in all his O house of Israel ! Ezek. xxxiii. epistles, speaking in them of these 10, 11.

desperation, or kinto wretchlessness of unclean living, no less perilous than desperation.

Furthermore 1 we must receive God’s promises

whole Scripture, the power of God to salvation to them only who do believe it. Christ himself, the Prophets before him, the Apostles after him, all the true ministers of God’s holy word, yea every word in God’s book, is unto the reprobate the savour

of death unto death. Christ Jesus, the Prophets, the Apostles,

and all the true ministers of his word, yea every jot and tittle in the holy Scripture, hath been, is, and shall be for evermore, the savour of life unto eternal life, unto all those whose hearts God hath purified by true faith. Horn. xxii. 2.

1 St. Augustin saith, Although many things in the Scripture be spoken in obscure mysteries, yet there is nothing spoken under dark mysteries in one place, but the self-same thing in other places is spoken more familiarly and plainly, to the capa- city both of learned and unlearned. And those things in the

k The earth, which drinketh in and the sow that was washed to the rain that cometh oft upon it, her wallowing- in the mire. 1 Pet. and bringeth forth herbs meet for ii. 20 — 22. Ye have been called them by whom it is dressed, re- unto liberty, only use not liberty ceiveth blessing from God ; but for an occasion to the flesh. Gal. that which beareth thorns and bri- v. 13. Looking diligently lest any ars is rejected, and is nigh unto man fail of the grace of God; lest cursing; whose end is to be burned, any root of bitterness springing up Heb. vi. 7, 8. There are certain trouble you, and thereby many be men crept in unawares, who were defiled. Heb. xii. 15. before of old ordained to this con- 1 The secret things belong unto demnation, ungodly men, turning the Lord our God, but those things the grace of our God into lascivious- which are revealed belong unto ness, and denying the only Lord us, and to our children for ever, God, and our Lord Jesus Christ, that we may do all the words of Jude 4. A stone of stumbling, and this law. Deut. xxix. 29. The a rock of offence, even to them grace of God which bringeth sal- which stumble at the word, being vation hath appeared to all men. disobedient: whereunto also they Tit. ii. 11. Go ye into all the were appointed. 1 Pet. ii. 8. If world, and preach the Gospel to after they have escaped the pol- every creature. Mark xvi. 15. lutions of the world through the Look unto me, and be ye saved, all knowledge of the Lord and Sa- the ends of the earth. Is. xlv. 22. viour Jesus Christ, they are again Come unto me, all ye that labour entangled therein, and overcome, and are heavy laden, and I will the latter end is worse with them give you rest. Matt. xi. 28. Let than the beginning. For it had him that is athirst come : and who- been better for them not to have soever will, let him take the water known the way of righteousness, of life freely. Rev. xxii. 17’ Let than after they have known it, to the wicked forsake his way, and turn from the holy commandment the unrighteous man his thoughts, delivered unto thern. But it is and let him return unto the Lord, happened unto them according to and he will have mercy upon him, the true proverb, The dog has and to our God, for he will abun- turned to his own vomit again; dandy pardon. Is. lv. 7. I gave

in such wise as they be generally set forth to us in holy Scripture. mAnd in our doings, that

Scripture that be plain to understand, and necessary for salvation, every man’s duty is to learn them, to print them in memory, and effectually to exercise them. And as for the dark mysteries, to be contented to be ignorant in them, until such time as it shall please God to open those things unto him. Horn. i. 2.

That we may attain the wisdom of God, hidden in his word, we must with fervent prayer crave of God that with his Spirit he lighten our minds, being darkened with extreme darkness. No well, p. 6.

Let us beware therefore, good Christian people, lest that we, rejecting or casting away God’s word, (by the which we obtain and retain true faith in God,) be not at length cast off so far, that we become as the children of unbelief, which be of two sorts, far diverse, yea almost clean contrary, and yet both be very far from returning to God : the one sort only weighing their sinful and detestable living with the right judgment and strait-

her space to repent of her fornica- tions, and she repented not. Rev. ii. 4. For the time is come that judg- ment 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. iv. 17. Now to him that is of power to stablish you according- to my Gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the re- velation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, but now is made manifest, and by the Scriptures of the prophets, ac- cording to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith; to God only wise be glory, through Jesus Christ, for ever. Amen. Rom. xvi. 25, 26.

m Not every one that saith unto me Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kiugdom of heaven, but he that doeth the will of my Father. Matt, vi. 21. He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good ; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God ? Mic. vi. 8. If any man will do his will, he shall kuow of the doctrine whether it be of God. John vii. 17. Hie secret is with the righteous.

Prov. iii. 32. The secret of the Lord is with them that fear him ; and he will shew them his cove- nant. Ps. xxv. 14. What man is he that feareth the Lord? him shall he teach in the way that he shall choose. Ps. xxv. 12. The mercy of the Lord is from everlast- ing to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children’s children ; to such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them. Ps. ciii. 17, 18. And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding. Job xxviii. 28. Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord. Hos. vi. 3. He that followeth me, shall not walk in darkness. John viii. 12. Unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righ- teousness arise with healing in his wings. Mai. iv. 2. Let us there- fore as many as be perfect be thus minded : but if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you. Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing. Phil. iii. 15, Its. Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your

will of God is to be followed, which we have

ness of God’s righteousness, be so without counsel, and be so comfortless, (as they all must needs be, from whom the spirit of counsel and comfort is gone,) that they will not be persuaded in their hearts, but that either God cannot, or else that he will not, take them again to his favour and mercy. The other, hearing the loving and large promises of God’s mercy, and so not con- ceiving a right faith thereof, make those promises larger than ever God did, trusting, that although they continue in their sin- ful and detestable living never so long, yet that God, at the end of their life, will shew his mercy upon them, and that then they will return. And both these two sorts of men be in a damnable state, and yet nevertheless, God (who willeth not the death of the wicked) hath shewed means, whereby both the same (if they take heed in season) may escape. The first, as they do dread God’s rightful justice in punishing sinners, (whereby they should be dismayed, and should despair indeed, as touching any hope that may be in themselves,) so if they would constantly or sted- fastly believe that God’s mercy is the remedy appointed against such despair and distrust, not only for them, but generally for all that be sorry and truly repentant, and will therewithal stick to God’s mercy, they may be sure they shall obtain mercy, and enter into the port or haven of safeguard, into the which whoso- ever doth come, be they beforetime never so wicked, they shall be out of danger of everlasting damnation, as God by Ezekiel saith, ” What time soever a sinner doth return, and take earnest and true repentance, I will forget all his wickedness.” Ezek. xxxiii. 19. Horn. viii. 2.

m For whereas God hath shewed to all them that truly believe his Gospel, his face of mercy in Jesus Christ, which doth so lighten their hearts, that they (if they behold it as they ought to do) be transformed to his image, be made partakers of the hea- venly light, and of his holy Spirit, and be fashioned to him in all goodness requisite to the children of God ; so, if they after do neglect the same, if they be unthankful unto him, if they order not their lives according to his example and doctrine, and to the setting forth of his glory, he will take away from them his king- dom, his holy word, whereby he should reign in them, because

own selves. James i. 22. He that is of God hcareth God’s words. John viii. 47. These were more nohle than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily, whether these thing-s were so. Therefore many of them believed. Acts xvii. 11,12. Blessed are they that hear the word of God and keep it. Luke xi.

28. If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. John viii. 31, 32. Depart from evil, and do good ; aud dwell for evermore. Ps. xxxvii. 27. Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. Rev. xxii. 14.

expressly declared unto us in the word of God.

they bring not forth the fruit thereof that he looketh for. Horn. viii. 1.

God at length doth so forsake his unfruitful vineyard, that he will not only suffer it to bring forth weeds, briars, and thorns, but also further punish the unfruitfulness of it. He saith he will not cut it, he will not delve it, and he will command the clouds that they shall not rain upon it : whereby is signified the teach- ing of his holy word, which St. Paul, after a like manner, ex- pressed by planting and watering ; meaning that he will take that away from them, so that they shall be no longer of his kingdom, they shall be no longer governed by his holy Spirit, they shall be put from the grace and benefits that they had, and ever might have enjoyed through Christ; they shall be deprived of the heavenly light and life, which they had in Christ, whilst they abode in him ; they shall be (as they were once) as men without God in this world, or rather in worse taking. And, to be short, they shall be given into the power of the devil, which beareth the rule in all them that be cast away from God, as he did in Saul and Judas, and generally in all such as work after their own wills, the children of mistrust and unbelief. 1 Sam, xv. 23. Ham. viii. 2.

V